This week the rugby community sadly lost one of its greatest assets, Luis Ghaut who lost his fight with Osteosarcoma. Luis’ team was the Northampton Saints and as we all came to understand he, was a true Saint by name and by nature.
Luis and his inspirational character was brought to the attention of the wider Premiership Rugby community at the 2014 Final, when he led the Saints onto the field prior to their historic victory. Prior to that point Luis’ was known to many at Franklin’s Gardens due to his desire to raise awareness of the condition he was battling with and for his loyal support of the side. Following Saints’ historic win Tom Wood dedicated the victory to the young man and the name and story of young Luis Ghaut spread. Just a short time prior to that moment of running onto the field at Twickenham Luis had, had a serious operation. It was his own steely will and character that powered him to be ready for the big day, indeed it a feat that inspired the twenty three men wearing green that day. Running out with his Saints was just one example of Luis’ determination to not let seemingly large barriers stop him from living his life. It is a lesson we all should learn from, when things get just a little tough, or something seems insurmountable.
One of the most apt phrases that I read this week was that, as only a young man, Luis was a hero to his heroes. Never once did you see Luis complain at the cruel hand that he had been dealt, instead he had a desire to make every single moment count and raise funds for and awareness of Osteosarcoma. Luis’ unrelenting strength and determination to fight against a challenge greater than anything that you, I or indeed his heroes could imagine inspired and humbled them.
At this time the deepest of condolences are being shared by all us to Luis’ family and friends, all of whom are hugely proud of their Saint. Luis taught life lessons to those many years his senior and will hold a special place in hearts for forever.
Fundraising continues at http://www.lu15.co.uk/
