Graeme Souness left in tears by BBC Breakfast guest fighting 'cruelest, nastiest, disease'
Former footballer Graeme Souness appeared on BBC Breakfast to discuss why he is swimming the Channel to raise funds for the charity DEBRA.
Graeme Souness speaks emotionally about girl with disease
Graeme Souness fought back tears when speaking to Sally Nugent and Jon Kay during Monday's BBC Breakfast.
The former footballer was joined by Isla, a child fighting Epidermolysis Bullosa - a rare inherited skin disorder that causes the skin to become very fragile.
However, Graeme couldn't contain his emotion when talking about how cruel Isla's illness is.
"Isla is the most unique human being I've ever met," Graeme said as his voice broke.
"She does this to me every time. She is an inspiration to me even at my age.
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"I came across this disease five years ago when I went to dinner in London and a young lady there was a sufferer. Her name was Myra from Birmingham."
"Football does its bit for charity and throughout my life, I've had the good fortune to spend time with people who have not been very well."
"But I knew nothing about this disease..." the former footballer trailed off as he broke down in tears.
"This disease is the cruelest... excuse me, I knew this would happen. It's the cruelest, nastiest, disease out there that I know of.
"And for someone so young to be so brave and highly aware of the impact this has on her mum and dad."
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Viewers also took to Twitter following the segment to share their thoughts, with many admitting to shedding a tear.
@Gazpics76 shared: "So moving to see this, will definitely be supporting the guys. Isla is an amazing girl … was heartbreaking to watch."
@SueSuzieq4 tweeted: "This broke my heart. My troubles are nothing in comparison. Good luck #GraemeSouness. It’s a beautiful thing you’re doing."
@Thedustdolly went on: "Thank you so much Graham for helping raise awareness of EB @BBCBreakfast thank you also for sharing this @CharityDEBRA is so special."
@AGrunningfeet added: "@BBCBreakfast please pass on my good wishes to the family and Graeme. I will b donating." (sic)
@GianniButtice praised: "Amazing effort by Graeme and what bravery children with this condition show every single day."
"Hay fever kicked in big style watching this!! Top man Graeme smash the swim were with you," KevinHunter2408 praised.