Former Rangers legend Fernando Ricksen will officially launch a new foundation this week aimed at raising funds for research into Motor Neurone Disease.
The Dutchman was diagnosed with the terminal disease three years ago and given 15 months to live. But he has vowed to become the first person to beat it.
On Friday, at Ibrox, he will launch the Fernando Ricksen Foundation, which aims to raise money for medicines and vital research into the condition.
Read more: Ex-Ranger Fernando Ricksen: I've got Motor Neurone Disease
Ricksen, who played almost 200 times for Rangers between 2000 and 2006, has been diagnosed with amytrophic lateral sclerosis, the most common form of the illness.
It causes muscles to weaken and waste away, leading to crippling paralysis which sweeps through the body over time
Since he was diagnosed, he has raised more than £80,000 for the charity, MND Scotland.
The charity will issue a direct appeal today for funding for research into the condition that claimed the life of Celtic legend Jimmy Johnstone.
MND Scotland will be raising awareness about the condition as an awareness week gets underway.
Read more: Ex-Ranger Fernando Ricksen: I've got Motor Neurone Disease
Craig Scotckton, Chief Executive of MND Scotland said: "MND is a rapidly progressing terminal illness with no effective treatment and no cure.
"During MND Awareness Week 2016 we want to increase public awareness and understanding of MND.
"Funding for research continues to be a priority for but with additional support we can do more."
To donate text CUREMND to 70660 to donate £5 to MND Scotland.
Read more: Ex-Ranger Fernando Ricksen: I've got Motor Neurone Disease
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