It says plenty about Everton’s fan of the year Sarah McNabb that she postponed a serious operation to follow the team at Wembley.
The 16-year-old was understandably keen to end a lengthy and painful ordeal following a bad netball injury – but not as eager as she was to see the Blues play in the FA Cup semi-final.
“I’ve had problems with both knees, several operations and was meant to go in again before the game,†explained Sarah, a Season Ticket holder in the Lower Bullens.
“But it would have meant missing out as I wouldn’t have been able to travel. So, I put it off to go down. I had it on the Wednesday after the game and I’m slowly getting better, bit by bit.â€
That commitment to the Blue cause is more than matched by Sarah’s commitment to her family, and a home life not typical of most 16-year-olds.
Her mum Margaret suffers from Multiple Sclerosis, while her younger brother Liam, 13, has Asperger's Syndrome.
And with dad Ray working shifts, conscientious Sarah juggles her studies at Southport’s KGV College with her responsibilities at home.
For her friend Rachael Webb, who nominated her, she is an inspiration.
She said: “Sarah is only 16 and is a carer for her mum and, despite this taking up a lot of time, she is a Season Ticket holder. She also has trouble with her knee which requires ongoing operations but crutches don't stop her going to the game.
“She balances all this with going to college and at a time when young people are receiving a bad press, Sarah is definitely a role model. She is so selfless. She is always doing things for others and taking care of her mum and younger brother but is still committed to Everton. I think she really deserves a reward.â€
