Ricky’s Story

When Ada Bridge was diagnosed with cancer in the summer of 2025, Dougie Mac became an important source of comfort, compassion and support for him and his family. During a difficult time, our care helped ensure Ada was treated with dignity and kindness, while giving his loved ones the reassurance and support they needed to focus on spending precious time together.

Ada’s son, Ricky, will never forget the difference Dougie Mac made to his dad’s final months. Every member of staff treated Ada with genuine kindness, making sure he was as comfortable as possible and supporting the whole family when they needed it most.

Ricky said: “Football was one of my dad’s greatest passions. Manchester City blue ran through his veins, while Port Vale was always close to his heart. In true father-and-son fashion, I followed in his footsteps and became a City fan too.

“Some of my happiest memories are travelling all over the country together during the old Maine Road days and, more recently, making countless trips to the Etihad Stadium. We also shared some unforgettable days out at Wembley watching City in cup and play-off finals.

“My dad – who married my mum, Dawn, at 18 – was the definition of a glass-half-full character, someone who never took life too seriously, always had a smile on his face and lived life to the fullest. He had a brilliant sense of humour and brought laughter wherever he went and loved us all well – those are the memories I’ll treasure forever.”

Ada, from May Bank, in Newcastle-under-Lyme, was diagnosed with cancer in the summer of 2025. Despite everything he faced, he fought it with courage and determination.

“From the moment Dougie Mac became involved, they provided incredible care for my dad and support for our whole family,” says Ricky. “During one of the most difficult times of our lives, they gave us comfort and dignity, allowing us to focus on spending precious time together.

“The care my dad received was nothing short of incredible. Every member of staff treated him with compassion, dignity and genuine kindness. Nothing was ever too much trouble and they always made sure he was as comfortable as possible.

“They also looked after us as a family, offering support when we needed it most – we will always be grateful for everything they did. Their care made an immeasurable difference during such a difficult time and it’s something we will never forget.”

Ada passed away on February 10^th 2026 – just three days after his 63^rd birthday.

Now, in memory of his dad and in recognition of the care he received, Ricky and his friends are taking on a special charity bike ride from the home of Manchester City – the Etihad Stadium – to Wembley Stadium, raising funds to help Dougie Mac continue supporting other local families with the same compassion, dignity and care.

Ricky has set himself a fund-raising target of £1,500 and the ride is due to set off from the Etihad around July 30^th.