Tributes have poured in for a local man described as a 'beautiful husband and best friend' after his recent battle with a rare illness came to an end.
Stuart Rutherford, from Bonnyrigg, Midlothian, passed away at age 56 from a very rare condition called AL Amyloidosis.
His wife, Lesley Rutherford, ran Bite Rite, a local sandwich shop for 16 years and gave it up when her husband of 30 years became ill.
READ MORE: West Lothian man 'racing against time' after suspected hernia revealed to be rare cancer
On February 1, Lesley announced on Facebook that the "love of her life" had sadly passed away and that he died in her arms.
Known throughout the local community, almost 300 people reached out to Lesley to offer their condolences after the passing of her husband.
Yesterday, February 9, Lesley posted to inform the community that they are all welcome to attend Stuart's funeral on February 15.
She said: "My beautiful husband and best friend will be laid to rest on Tuesday 15 February at cockpen cemetery at 2pm all welcome. Stuart, my life will never be the same without you, I love you more than life itself till we meet again, Lesley and your two beautiful boys."
Stuart and Lesley have two boys, Callum and Bobby, aged 27 and 17, with Bobby's birthday coming up on Friday, February 11.
Speaking on the heartbreaking passing of her husband, Lesley added: "I ran Bite Rite for 16 years and I was devastated to give it up but Stuart came first.
"He had a very rare disease called AL Amyloidosis and it's so rare."
The NHS description of AL Amyloidosis is: "Amyloidosis is the name for a group of rare, serious conditions caused by a build-up of an abnormal protein called amyloid in organs and tissues throughout the body.
"The build-up of amyloid proteins (deposits) can make it difficult for the organs and tissues to work properly. Without treatment, this can lead to organ failure."
They also say that there is currently no cure for the disease and in most instances, people diagnosed with it have to undergo chemotherapy.
Lesley was also sent flowers as well as touching messages and tributes towards her husband and family, showing the immense togetherness of the local town.
Amongst the comments on her post, one user said: "Absolutely devastating news Lesley, My thoughts are with you and your family. I'm so sorry for you all."
Another said: "So sorry Lesley he was a good friend from school and was a great guy, devastated for you and the family, take care."
One added: "I can't actually believe this sad news, Stuart was always the same when I saw him, great guy. Can't imagine your pain at this moment take care all."
