A heartbroken family have been having a "horrendous time" following the loss of a "devoted" Leeds dad.
Marc Hitchings, 44, sadly died "unexpectedly" on Monday, March 20. He has been described as a "true legend" with a "heart of gold" as a dad, brother, son, friend to many, and partner of Joanne.
Marc had been battling a long-term illness and on February 28 he was told he had Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. Sadly his health "deteriorated" and he died just over four weeks later. His death tragically came just 10 weeks after his younger brother Chrissy died following a battle with cancer
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Marc's family told Leeds Live: "Marc was a true Yorkshire man through and through. He was a keen footballer and in his younger days, his ball never left his feet. Marc was a devoted husband and dad to his three children of 22 years, 17 years and five years old.
"His whole world revolved around them and there's did too. Marc loved spending time with family and friends of new and old and he would never fail to entertain you. He was a true legend, one of a kind, with an heart of gold.
"Marc will always be remembered and missed by so many people. He had a face of kindness and an inspiration to anyone who met him. There was only one Marc Hitchings, he was a true character, everyone enjoyed being around him and people could always turn to him."
The family of the Leeds United fan said on February 28 he got his results from a bone marrow biopsy, which revealed his leukaemia. While they waited for further results to explore possible treatments, Marc's condition "deteriorated" and was he admitted to hospital on March 7.
His family added: "Within days Marc’s health significantly deteriorated and was moved into ICU. He tried his upmost, as he always did, through his life, to put up a good fight with the help of the nursing staff but sadly, he never returned home to his family and passed away."
Family friend Emma Temple has set up a GoFundMe page in a bid to raise funds for his funeral and family left behind. Emma said: "We would like to support Joanne and her family with the cost of the funeral service at this difficult time to give Marc the best send-off that he truly deserves. What Joanne and her family have gone through is just unimaginable and there is no way any one can prepare for the losses they have faced."
She added: "No amount of money can replace Marc, but contributions can take away a small part of the stress that comes with unexpected loss and any amount would be appreciated and valued more than you know. We will always cherish the memories and we will all miss you. Rest in peace Marc."
To donate to the fundraiser in honour of Marc Hitchings, click here.
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