Thoughtful AED presentation at Celtic Park in tribute to Hoops fan Mark McCuish

Thoughtful AED presentation at Celtic Park in tribute to Hoops fan Mark McCuish

Natalie McCuish approached the club regarding the donation of an Automatic External Defibrillator she would like to be used at Celtic Park.

Sadly, this was following the sudden passing of her husband, Mark McCuish, last year at the age of 43.

Mark was a season ticket holder at Celtic as well as playing in the Junior ranks, most notably in the hoops of St Anthony’s, and he was also a firefighter in Glasgow.

Natalie raised funds in his memory at a memorial evening held in August, 2025. She has given donations to other organisations such as the children’s hospital in Glasgow and was keen to give something back to the club in her husband’s name.

So, Natalie presented the AED to club legends, Roy Aitken and Tom Boyd before the 1-0 win over St Mirren at the weekend.

Celtic Park already features a number of defibrillators with our objective being to ensure an AED is always within a 90-second walking distance of any spectator or staff member inside the stadium. Their importance cannot be underestimated.

The club have had a number of first aid instances over the past few years and Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are crucial in large football stadiums because they directly increase survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest.

In large crowds, the statistical likelihood of an event occurring is higher, and quick access to a defibrillator (within 3–5 minutes) is the most important factor for survival.

This is a really thoughtful and poignant gesture from Natalie which we are pleased to accept, and we are sure this will carry real meaning and impact to so many families who have been affected.

While the McCuish family has faced such tragedy, the resilience and determination Natalie has shown in looking to help others, as well as paying tribute to Mark in this way, is just inspirational.