‘Life is for living, whatever is in front of you’ - Family leads tributes to ‘remarkable’ Stefan Mauger after five-year battle with cancer
A raft of tributes have been shared for “remarkable” Ullapool man, Stefan Mauger, who has died after a five-year battle with cancer.
Stefan’s family led tributes this week, noting the 20-year-old for his bravery, as an “inspiration to many” and a “warrior”, showing people that “life is for living whatever is in front of you”.
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Leading tributes, parents Chris and Gina, said: “We are truly heartbroken to share with you, our darling Stefan passed away on Saturday, January 11 aged 20.
“Stefan never once complained or asked “why me?”. He was a rock throughout his whole journey he managed to keep working and would adapt to every barrier put in front of him.”
Stefan’s strength helped his family Chris, Gina and Vanessa to cope throughout five years of treatment for a rare type of bone cancer.
Dad, Chris Mauger, added: “The mental torture endured throughout his whole journey, escalating to losing his mobility was unbelievable, and Stefan somehow found the strength to fight another massive hurdle put in front of him.
“He showed unbelievable strength and determination through this nightmare of life with cancer. He showed with great courage that you can still find happiness and carry on living.
“Stefan never gave up, it was his body that gave up after all the treatment. His body just slowly closed down.
“He was a remarkable young man who was taken far too young, and showed people life is for living whatever is in front of you – and to not complain about the mundane things in life, as they are nothing.
“Life is nothing without your health. Stefan will be truly missed by everyone who knew him. Rest in peace, Stefan.”
A talented and keen footballer, Stefan was the captain of Ullapool’s under-17 team when he was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma at the age of just 15.
He underwent treatment for his condition at Edinburgh Children’s Hospital, enduring eight different lines of chemotherapy and 25 rounds of radiotherapy over the space of five years.
Soon after beginning treatment, he made the decision to shave his head, and in a show of solidarity, several of Stefan’s teammates, as well as coaches and supporters, followed suit, raising almost £10,000 for Teenage Cancer Trust.
In 2022, Stefan was able to take to the field as a substitute in Ullapool under-17’s final game of the season, scoring a penalty kick in a 5-1 win against Tain, receiving applause from both sets of players and spectators.
In June 2024, he suffered a devastating spinal cord compression and was left unable to walk unaided, requiring the use of a wheelchair.
Incredibly, Stefan fought through this and managed to walk on crutches and even had a car adapted so he could drive.
A statement from Lochbroom AFC on Facebook read: “Stefan was a warrior both on the pitch and off. He was the captain and a rock in defence of the Ullapool FC under-17 team which competed in the Scottish Youth Highland League.
“He managed a couple of appearances in a Lochbroom top too. A true leader and an even better person.”
Stefan’s family has asked people attending his funeral to wear “a touch of red” in tribute to Stefan, who was a devoted fan of Liverpool FC.
A note from the family read: “Stefan’s funeral will take place at the Church of Scotland, Ullapool on Tuesday, January 21 at 1pm, followed by burial at Morefield Cemetery.
“All are welcome to join us for refreshments afterwards at the Caledonian Hotel.
“If you wish, wear a touch of red for Stefan.”
