With recent DCFC stories being a little on the negative side, it is nice to finally have found a Rams related story that brought a smile to my face - hopefully it does the same for you!
Rams legend Igor Stimac made a fabulous gesture to a Derby County fan who fell ill while visiting the former Derby Captain’s home country of Croatia.
BBC news reported yesterday that 74 year old Rams fan John Foster from Heage required emergency surgery while on holiday in Split.
When the Surgery was conducted and John’s son Mark heard the news of his father’s surgery, he could only think of one name when trying to think of someone he could contact for help in Croatia.
He contacted DCFC and with their help was put in touch with the Rams legend who was more than willing to travel the 100 miles required to visit Mr Foster.
Even more impressive was not only did he pop in to see how things were getting on and that the Derby season ticket holder was doing ok, Igor went as far as assisting John and his wife in organising flights back to England after their schedule had been totally thrown out.
Igor was as humble as ever when explaining why he decided to get involved:
"It made me feel sad when I heard about it because they were supposed to be on holiday. I went along to see if there was anything I could help with and perhaps pay a little bit back from my time in Derby."
Mark Foster also spoke to the BBC about his parents surprise visitor:
"I think they were both overwhelmed to begin with but very happy to see him. They sat and talked about some of their memories of matches he'd played in.”
"I think he understood my parents were a long way from home, just like he was when he first came to Derby."
There is no doubt that Igor was and will always be a legend amongst each and every Rams fan but this should elevate him even higher in our estimations.
A genuine superstar in black and white who may only have played 84 games for Derby but definitely made a mark that will never be washed away.
In a time when it is hard enough to get a player to turn down his iPod long enough to have a chat, Igor has shown pure class in appreciating the bond a player can enjoy with those who once helped pay his wages.
Hopefully more of the current crop follow his lead.
Despite the controversies that Stimac may have been involved in as part of his role in Croatian football as a Manager and administrator, it seems he has lost none of his ability to step up and do what no one could have or would have expected.
Great work Igor – RamZone and I am sure all Rams fans salute you.
And in case you were wondering (I know I was!) - John Foster is now out of hospital and will fly home shortly.
Get well soon John – you are the luckiest, unlucky Rams fans you will ever find!