QUINN'S SUPPORT FOR O'DONNELL FAMILY By Ronnie Esplin, PA Sport
Motherwell defender Paul Quinn has touchingly revealed how he continues to help the widow and children of Phil O'Donnell cope with the tragic death of the former Fir Park captain almost a year ago.
O'Donnell died after collapsing during his side's Clydesdale Bank Premier League home game against Dundee United on December 29, 2007 leaving behind wife Eileen, and their four children.
The 35-year-old midfielder was treated on the pitch before being taken to a waiting ambulance but his death, through heart failure, was confirmed later by the Lanarkshire club.
As Motherwell prepare to commemorate the first anniversary of O'Donnell's passing, an emotional Quinn, 23, revealed his on-going involvement in the family's grieving process.
"I've still got lots of unanswered questions about why Phil died so young," Quinn said.
"But I said at that time of his death that if there was ever anything that Eileen and the kids needed, and I could help, then I would do it.
"I have done it and I will continue to do that until the day I die.
"I speak to Eileen regularly and she needs to know she is not alone.
"She has a wonderful family around her but she needs to know that we at the club are behind her.
"Phil would have wanted his team-mates and friends to look after his family.
"I know for a fact that if the shoe was on the other foot, he would do the same for me.
"That's just the way he was; he would certainly have been there for my family and friends."
Quinn, who has been involved in several off-field incidents this year, including having his jaw broken on a night out and being found guilty of an assault charge, also revealed Eileen O'Donnell has reciprocated with help in his times of need.
He said: "Whatever has happened to me, one person who has always phoned me to make sure that I'm all right and it's Eileen O'Donnell.
"She has sent cards, gifts and flowers.
"Hopefully, one day I will speak about what has happened to me and the truth will come out but, regardless of what happened, Eileen would have been in my corner anyway."
Quinn passed on a statement from O'Donnell's widow who admits she is still coming to terms with her loss.
The statement read: "Although I'm not strong enough to speak (about Phil's death) myself, I really want to say that I'm so very aware of the huge impact it had on so many.
"It is a year on and it still feels as raw as it did then.
"I just want to let everyone know that my children and me are forever grateful for all the support that has been given by family and friends and by the Scottish people in general.
"I'm very touched by the level of compassion shown to us throughout this most difficult time.
"Phil lives on in our children and I am very lucky to have them every day."
Quinn said: "She is having as hard a time now, as she was last year when it happened.
"She is thanking other people when she has been the bravest. That sums up Eileen."
