If you have read some of my rants in the past, you will know that I am a massive Manchester United fan with a complete and utter hatred for Manchester City’s team itself. Whenever they score late equalisers and winners I cringe, fists clenched (as many of you likely do, regardless of what team you support). Usually these late goals are scored by #10 Edin Dzeko. I hate Dzeko. “Hate” is a strong word perhaps – “jealous” might be more suitable.
However, after I read the news yesterday I found out that it seems that if Dzeko isn’t saving Manchester City, he is saving youngsters in need of aid. Respect! Let me explain…
This week, a 16-year old Bosnian boy was suffering from Encapsulating Peritoneale Sclerosis, weighing only 56 lbs because of the disease. He was set to have an operation in Manchester where his survival rate was said by doctors to be 50/50, and that considering that particular Manchester hospital was ranked #1 in the world for the operation.
When Edin Dzeko found out about the boy needing a translator for the doctors to explain to the boy what was going on, Edin Dzeko took the initiative to help as best as he could. Imagine that! Dzeko showed up with presents for the youngster as well as a personal phone for the boys mother to be able to keep his family in Bosnia posted on the operation.
Doctors said Dzeko was extremely kind and pleasant, being very modest and doing more than asked to help out anyway he could. Dzeko stayed by the young teen’s side as long as possible, not just showing up and doing some pictures and then leaving. It was clear that #10 was there to help out, not just get his name in the papers for some cheap publicity like some athletes are known for.
As for the boy, the operation was a success! Doctors explained that he would need further check-ups back in Bosnia. Dzeko again came to the boys aid. Knowing Bosnian hospitals have less technology then English facilities, he personally contacted the Bosnian facilities to assure that they had the equipment and would take great care of young Aner Zelic!
What Dzeko has doned is fantastic. I have a newfound respect for him, and will find it particularly difficult to see him scoring goals for my arch enemies. In the back of my mind I will always remember what he did, and for that I wish him well in his professional football career.
I wish more athletes would take on greater responsibility like Dzeko has. Not because I think it needs to be a part of their contract, but because they can use their start power to make a great difference in so many ways. It’s easy to sign a big cheque and get your picture taken holding it for a donation, which is a great thing to do. But to spend hours of your time like Dzeko did is something special.
Thank you Edin Dzeko – you, sir, are a top class man!
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photo credit: Matt Bolton via wikicommons cc
