'I read every single card, note, picture and beautiful words written by people'
The partner of Lee Collins has written an open letter to fans thanking them for their support - as the club fundraises to support their former captain's family.
Last updated 27th May 2021
Lee died on March 31 and the club are also helping to support mental health charities.
More than £3,400 has so far been raised through the online appeal, which you can find here
The open letter from Rachel reads:
I just wanted to say a few words to thank you all, both those here at Yeovil Town F.C. and further afield in the footballing community, on both mine and Lee’s wider family’s behalf.
I'm not too sure on the right words to say, to express how thankful I am and how much your well wishes and kindness mean throughout what has been extremely difficult time. We are, understandably, devastated by the loss of Lee. Every single day is now a lesson, learning to live without him and ways to cope.
I personally visited the floral tributes left at the ground for Lee on a couple of occasions and I read every single card, note, picture and beautiful words written by people for Lee. I am truly touched by everyone’s kindness.
I also wanted to say the deepest, heartfelt thank you to Darren, Terry, and Scott. Their support has been amazing, nothing is ever too much and anything I have needed, Darren has always helped me and my girls out.
Our girls have been extremely strong throughout this whole thing. They undoubtedly miss their dad, as we all do, more than anything. Our new family motto is 'one day at a time', which sometimes, to get through every day, is a task in itself. Their courage, resilience and love is something that I am in complete awe of. They give me a reason to smile every day and we remember Lee every single day.
Mental health is so vitally important, and I ask any of you reading this, if you need help or are offered help by those closest to you, because they see you need it when you can't, please, please reach out. It is OK to not be OK, and there is always someone there for you... Even when you feel like there isn't.
Lee was your captain, your leader. For us, he was our safe place, our best friend.
We will forever be grateful for your love, kindness, and support. It means more than you will ever know to me and our girls.
On the fundraising page, Yeovil FC said: "Described as the ‘glue’ of the club at Yeovil, Collins also wore the captain’s armband at Northampton Town, Mansfield Town and Forest Green Rovers and played for teams across the English Football League (EFL) and National League including Wolverhampton Wanderers, Port Vale, Barnsley and Shrewsbury Town.
"Admired by all he played with at Yeovil and beyond, Collins set standards both on and off the pitch and will be remembered for his competitive attitude as well as his kind and caring nature."