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    Mum breastfeeds her six-month-old baby as she runs ultramarathon up and down seven mountains and WINS epic 100km race

    AN ULTRA-MARATHON runner has won an epic 100km race – whilst stopping to BREASTFEED along the way. Stephanie Case, 43, took on the gruelling Ultra-Trail Snowdonia race in Wales on May 17.Stephanie Case returned to run her first ultramarathon in three year earlier this monthCredit: INSTAGRAM @theultrarunnergirlThe 43-year-old recently became a mum and somehow won despite stopping to breastfeed her daughterCredit: INSTAGRAM @theultrarunnergirlCase had not raced in three years before lining up on the start line for the outrageous physical test.It was the first time the human rights lawyer from Canada had run competitively since the birth of her daughter Pepper in November.And she wasn’t about to let the race get in the way of the six-month-old’s meal times. Case’s partner John met her at checkpoints throughout the race, handing the 43-year-old food to refuel.READ MORE ON SPORTWhile Stephanie would also feed Pepper before getting back into her running. She said: “It was truly like riding a bike – every kilometre that passed reminded me that I hadn’t lost a thing over the last three years.”In fact, I have gained way more joy and strength from this sport as a mum than I ever did before. “While it broke my heart to leave little Pepper at the aid stations, I wanted to show her – both of us – how amazing mum runners can be.”Most read in AthleticsBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAfter starting 30 minutes behind the elite runners, Case had no idea she had crossed the finish line in the fastest time. She laughed: “The race officials came to me and they were like, ‘You actually won.’ Moment Scot crosses finish line as he completes 32 ultramarathon challenge”They asked me ‘Can you run through the tape again for the cameras?'”Case added: “I’m not extraordinary.”I had a baby, I ran a race. It should be a totally normal thing.”Everyone has an opinion about what new mums should or shouldn’t be doing, and that doesn’t open up a lot of. space for out there ideas like running an ultra. “I’m lucky to be physically okay after childbirth. Others aren’t so lucky.”There is no ‘comeback’ after childbirth. There is just the next phase. “And whatever it looks like, whether on or off the trail, it’ll be right for you.” More

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    Newcastle star Callum Wilson bravely opens up on moment he considered taking his own life as a child

    CALLUM WILSON revealed he contemplated suicide aged 12 and how seeking therapy a year ago saved him from his demons.The father-of-two forward, whose Newcastle contract expires next month, bravely spoke out during Mental Health Awareness week and hopes his story will inspire others to ask for help.Callum Wilson revealed he contemplated suicide aged 12Wilson has represented England at senior levelCredit: GettyHis Newcastle contract expires at the end of the seasonCredit: GettyEngland international Wilson, 33, bared all about growing up in Coventry as one of six children with a single mum and with a different dad to his siblings.The Leeds transfer target spent time in foster care and had to regularly use food banks while also staying in safe houses after witnessing domestic violence at home.He told Jake Humphrey on the High Performance podcast: “I cried myself to sleep at night. I got to about 12, 13 – it was like suicidal moments.”When I say I cried myself to sleep, I was just praying to God like ‘take me out of this environment, I want to become a footballer’.”read more in football He admitted: “I’ve walked alongside the train track and was building up the courage to jump basically in front of the train. “I’ve tied cables around my bedroom rail and my PlayStation remote controller to see if it was strong enough to hold my weight.“Football really was my saviour, it was my escape.”Wilson, though, refuses to blame his mother for any of his unstable upbringing, saying: “It was my mum on her own, all my siblings in the house. Most read in Football”We had a three bedroom council house. Food was sparing to come by. That, along with a bit of turmoil.“I probably have a lot of aggression from that point, but football was a place that I could be aggressive in my position on the pitch and it would be ok. So it was like a release really.”Champions League places CONFIRMED after Aston Villa VAR controversy as Newcastle have to be saved by Man UtdDespite all of the success in his career on the pitch, Wilson admitted that he had started to become more aggressive over recent years and he started to gamble.Though he hailed a Newcastle physio for spotting he needed help and making him take it – which felt “like a weight was lifted” after the very first session.He added: “Once I started speaking, and revealed everything I’ve been through in life, she was like ‘Wow, how have you got to this point already without not seeing a therapist?’“I speak to my wife about it, but I didn’t want to blur the lines with our relationship. “She’s not my therapist, she’s my wife and the mother of my children, so I didn’t want to burden her with problems. “You can speak to a therapist and it does feel a sense of relief afterwards.“It’s an investment in yourself and more than worth it. I’m probably learning a lot about myself now – little traits that I have that were obviously triggered by things as a kid. I’m really happy.”YOU’RE NOT ALONEEVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organizations provide support:CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.ukMind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41Samaritans, www.samaritans.org, 116 123Movember, www.uk.movember.comMeanwhile, Wilson appeared to wave goodbye to Newcastle with a tearful solo lap of honour round the St. James’ pitch on Sunday after the Magpies had secured Champions League qualification.Although Magpies boss Eddie Howe refused to rule out a potential stay.Howe said: “Let’s wait and see. We’re going to sit down and talk with his representatives.“What I can say is Callum Wilson is and has been just an incredible footballer for Newcastle. “Someone who epitomises the spirit that’s got us to where we are really professional. Brave.“To come here and be the No.9 in the manner and the moment that he did in the club’s history. Read More on The Sun”It was a difficult moment and the club needed hope and Callum gave them hope, led the line with that responsibility and the pressure that role brings unbelievably.“He brings a positivity to the group. He’s a leader within the change room. He’s just been incredible and let’s wait and see what happens.”If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123. More

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    Meet the stunning Europa League Wags cheering on Man Utd & Tottenham… from a glam doctor to Molly-Mae’s bestie

    WITH 80,000 fans heading to Bilbao and millions more glued to TV sets, the Europa League final is one of the biggest sporting events of the year.And there’s plenty at stake as Tottenham face off against Manchester United tonight in the much anticipated match.Famous WAG Fern Hawkins is married to Harry MaguireCredit: GettyMan Utd’s Diogo Dalot proposed to his stunning girlfriend Claudia Pinto LopesCredit: Instagram / @diogodalotThe winning team could receive up to £54.4million and will earn a place in the Champions League for next season.It’s a dream ticket for the victorious team, and they’ll be cheered on all the way by their glamorous wives and girlfriends.The supporting stars are a talented bunch themselves and have proved to be true keepers in the lads’ lives. BETTING OFFER – GET EITHER TEAM TO WIN THE EUROPA LEAGUE AT 40/1READ MORE SPORT We take a look at some of the stunning Manchester United and Spurs WAGs who might make you take your eye off the ball – from a star philanthropist to the daughter of a mayor.MANCHESTER UNITEDClaudia Pinto and Diogo Dalot The couple have been dating since 2020Credit: Instagram/ClaudiaspintolopesClaudia posts her lavish WAG lifestyle on her social mediaCredit: Instagram/laudiaspintolopesClaudia Pinto, 25, is engaged to Portugese full-back Diogo Dalot, 26, and they have a one-year-old daughter. The pair, who have been dating since 2020, regularly post loved-up snaps on social media. Claudia joined Dalot in Italy when he spent a year with AC Milan during 2020.Most read in FootballEarlier this month she posted snaps from her glamorous hen party online. The WAG appears to live the life of luxury and keeps fans up to date with her regular outfit and make-up Instagram posts. Fern Hawkins and Harry MaguireFern and Harry tied the knot in 2022Credit: InstagramFern now owns her own businessCredit: InstagramHarry Maguire slow dances with wife Fern Hawkins at lavish wedding Science graduate and former physiotherapist Fern has been married to Harry since 2022 but they met when they were just 18 years old. The pair have two daughters, Lillie Saint Maguire, six, and Piper Rose, four. Last year entrepreneur Fern decided to open her own florist. She targeted the celebrity party market and even named her business venture after her daughters – The Saint Rose Floristry. Loyal Fern, 30, previously spoke out in support of her husband, 32, after he was arrested in Mykonos following a drunken bust-up outside a nightclub in August 2020.She slammed “lying” Greek cops for trying to ruin the Man United defender’s “reputation”. Melanie Kamayou and Andre Onana Melanie Kamayou is a pharmacist doctorCredit: instagram @ melaniekamayouMelanie first started dating Andre in 2019Credit: instagram @ melaniekamayouMelanie Kamayou, 29, is a pharmacist doctor and businesswoman, acting as co-chair of the Andre Onana Foundation. Melanie and goalkeeper Andre Onana, 29, married in 2023 after first being spotted together in 2019. She was left devastated after being robbed of her £62,000 Hermes Birkin bag and a Rolex watch outside a restaurant in Alderley Edge, Cheshire earlier this year. The pair still look loved-up and support each other on and off the pitch, with Melanie travelling across four different countries to watch Onana play.The social media star and model has been in the stands supporting Onana at Ajax in the Netherlands, Inter Milan in Italy, Manchester United and away on international duty for Cameroon.Anouska Santos and Luke ShawAnouska Santos is close friends with Love Island star Molly-MaeCredit: Getty ImagesThe pair typically keep their relationship privateCredit: Instagram @anouskasantosAnouska Santos, 28, owns an accessories brand, Treats Studios, and is good friends with influencer and former Love Island star Molly-Mae Hague. While Anouska is a familiar face among the Premier League WAGs, she and boyfriend Luke Shaw keep a very private relationship but have been posting together on social media since 2017. The pair have three children – a boy, four, and two girls, one and two. Anouska recently jetted to Germany to support England star Luke, 29, and fans were quick to compliment her flawless outfit. Maja Nilsson and Victor Lindelof Maja has been dubbed the Premier League’s hottest WAGCredit: Instagram/majanilssonlindelofMaja is a popular Instagram modelCredit: Instagram/majanilssonlindelofThe pair got married in 2018Credit: Instagram/majanilssonlindelofMaja Nilsson, 25, and Swedish defender Victor Lindelof, 30, tied the knot in 2018 and Maja has since been dubbed the Premier League’s hottest Wag, with fans calling her the “finest of the finest”. Maja is a keen influencer and fashion entrepreneur, with more than 250,000 followers on Instagram.She recently starred on the cover of a glossy magazine and showed off her flawless bump as she is currently pregnant with the pair’s third child. Sadly the family experienced a horrific break-in during 2022 and Maja was forced to lock herself and her children in a room after intruders broke into their home. Anna Mariana and Casemiro Anna has two children with her football crazy husbandCredit: Instagram/annamarianacasemiroAnna Mariana is a makeup artistCredit: Instagram/annamarianacasemiroCasemiro plays for Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyAnna Mariana Casemiro, 35, is a Brazilian makeup artist and shares two children with the United midfielder. It was rumoured in 2023 that Casemiro had been cheating on his wife for years, but Anna hit back on social media. She said: “Oh man, really? Best to investigate your sources first, I just look around and know it’s not him.”The pair got together in 2011 and tied the knot three years later.Anna made headlines last year for defending her husband on Instagram after his performance during a clash against Liverpool was criticised. She swiftly posted a picture of Casemiro’s trophy cabinet – reminding fans of his talents. Ana Pinho and Bruno Fernandes Ana Pinho and United captain Bruno Fernandes met when they were teensCredit: Instagram/anaapinho_Ana stuns fans in her bikiniCredit: Instagram/anaapinho_Ana and United captain Bruno, both 30, are childhood sweethearts and got together at just 17 years old. Bruno has since revealed that Ana used to pay for the pair’s dates as he was broke as a teenager. He wrote online: “Ana has been with me on this ride since we were 16, 17, 18 years old.“We met as teenagers, and when we first started dating, I wasn’t making any money as a footballer, and she had a nice job working as a futsal referee on the weekends.”The couple met in their hometown of Boavista and they share a daughter, seven, and a son, four.Sabrina Kvist Jensen and Christian EriksenThe loved up couple at the 2023 Laureus World Sport AwardsCredit: GettyChristian Eriksen and Sabrina Kvist Jensen with their son AlfieCredit: chriseriksen8/InstagramTrained hairdresser Sabrina has been in a relationship with midfielder Christian since 2016 and they have a young son called Alfie. Sabrina worked for a clothing company when they first moved to the UK. The Danish couple prefer to keep a low profile, but Christian has previously spoken out about how tricky life on the go is for his girlfriend. He said: “You have to learn how to cope physically and mentally, but I can handle the pressure and the demands because I live seven days a week for my job.“That is very tough for my girlfriend. Of course, I would like to go out in the city with her and friends, but it just doesn’t fit in with playing in England.”In June 2021, Christian collapsed on the pitch after suffering a cardiac arrest during a Euro 2020 game against Finland. Distraught Sabrina thought he had died and leapt over the barriers to run to his side. She was comforted by Leicester City’s Kaspar Schmeichel who made a beeline for her.Kaspar’s dad Peter said: “He said that Christian is breathing. She actually thought that he’d passed away, and just to confirm that (he was breathing) he went back to be absolutely sure that he wasn’t saying anything that was out of order.”Eva Garcia and Alejandro GarnachoEve is a Spanish influencerCredit: Instagram/evagarciaThe pair have a young son togetherCredit: GettyPopular influencer Eva, 20, has over 600,000 followers on Instagram and has been with Argentinian winger Alejandro Garnacho, 20, since 2021. The pair are both from Spain and share a young son, Enzo, and Eva is also a co-owner of a jewellery store. Rumours flew when Eva allegedly unfollowed her partner on Instagram last year after she gave birth, but the pair have recently been posting snaps of their happy family. TOTTENHAM HOTSPURSKennedy Alexa and James Maddison Kennedy is a supportive girlfriend of the star footballerCredit: instagram @kennedyalexaKennedy is a modelCredit: InstagramKennedy and James have been together for five yearsCredit: InstagramKennedy, 30, and Spurs midfielder James, 28, are parents to three young children and have been together for five years. The English-American model has a keen fan base with whom she regularly shares stunning outfit posts on social media. The pair went public with their relationship in 2020 but tend to keep it on the down-low. Kennedy gave birth to twins in 2023 and was later championed by mums online for showing off her stretch marks. Mackenzie Medlock and Lucas Bergvall Mackenzie Medlock and Lucas Bergvall on the model’s InstagramCredit: Instagram/mackenzie.medlockThe Swedish influencer is new to the public eyeCredit: Instagram/mackenzie.medlockSwedish social media influencer Mackenzie has over 20,000 followers on Instagram and loves sharing their luxe lifestyle on social media.The teen couple are fairly new to the public eye and Mackenzie had to turn off comments on her Instagram last year, after Barcelona fans got angry due to Lucas turning down the Catalan club.Lucas, 19, plays as a midfielder for Spurs. Karen Romero and Cristian Romero Cristian and Karen Romero with their sonCredit: Instagram @cutiromero2The pair met in 2018Karen, 25, is from Argentina and has worked as a human resources manager. Unlike other WAGs, her social media is private. She met Argentinian centre-back Cristian Romero, 27, in 2018 and they have two children, Lucy and Valentino. Cristian shared an adorable video in 2023 which showed him jokingly teaching his young son football, with fans going wild for the rare glimpse at their family life. Ioana Stan and Radu DragusinIoana and Radu have been dating since 2020Credit: Instagram/ioanastan_Ioana Stan sharing her fashion look onlineCredit: Instagram/ioanastan_Radu Dragusin of Tottenham HotspurCredit: GettyArchitecture student Ioana regularly shares romantic snaps online with her footballer boyfriend Radu Dragusin, 23. She too is from Romania and is the daughter of Gabriel Stan, the former deputy mayor of Constanta in the country. The pair have reportedly been dating since 2020, and Ioana has moved to England with Radu while he plays for the north London club.Indira Ampiot and Mathy Tel Fans have gone crazy for the French pair’s relationshipCredit: Instagram/indira.ampiotIndira is a beauty pageant queenCredit: GettyMathys Tel of Tottenham Hotspur in action in MayCredit: GettyFrench beauty queen Indira, 20, has been dating 19-year-old forward Mathys Tel, 20, since December 2024. Indira was crowned Miss France in 2023 and went on to compete in Miss Universe the following year. Read More on The SunShe also has a degree in communications and the blossoming love story has caught the attention of fans online. Mathys Tel is also from France and is on loan from Bundesliga club Bayern Munich. He plays for the French U21 national team.  More

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    Phil Foden splashes HUGE sum to buy daughter, True, 3, a Rolex – and it’s identical to one worn by A-lister’s daughter

    AT the age of three, Phil Foden’s daughter might struggle to tell the time — but Daddy has already treated her to a £10,000 Rolex.Little True was seen wearing the pricey watch in pictures posted on her Instagram page last week.Phil Foden has bought his daughter a £10,000 RolexFoden pictured with Rebecca Cooke and their childrenCredit: Instagram/officialronniefodenMan City and England ace Foden loves spending his £200,000-a-week wages on his kidsCredit: GettyEngland and Man City ace Phil, 24, and girlfriend Rebecca Cooke run the site, which has 22,400 followers. True is also seen kitted out in a £160 Monnalisa designer dress, a £40 bag from Hookd and a Pandora charm bracelet.Her Rolex is identical to one worn by Kylie Jenner’s daughter Stormi, six.Phil’s own watch collection includes a Rolex Sky Dweller and a Day Date.Read More on FODENThe midfielder, who came on as a sub in yesterday’s FA Cup final defeat to Crystal Palace, loves spending his £200,000-a-week wages on his kids — Ronnie, five, True, and baby boy Phil Junior.True was given a pony, Angus, at Christmas and is having riding lessons.A source said: “True loves anything girly, sparkly — she loves fancy things. She is the little girl that wants for nothing.” Phil recently moved the family to a mansion with a lake in the Cheshire countryside. Most read in FootballHe was brought up on a council estate in nearby Edgeley, Stockport.His mum, Claire, has revealed how much her son had changed recently.She said: “The shocking thing is I hear him ordering salmon a lot now and he never used to eat that.”’I don’t expect anything’ Roy Keane savages England star after below-par display in Thomas Tuchel’s first gameThe Rolex is identical to one worn by Kylie Jenner’s daughter Stormi, six More

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    ‘Love you more than you will ever know’ – Sky Sports pundit pays emotional tribute to daughter on her 21st birthday

    JAMIE CARRAGHER has paid an emotional tribute to his daughter on her 21st birthday.The Sky Sports pundit took to social media to wish Mia a happy birthday.Jamie Carragher has paid an emotional tribute to his daughter Mia on her birthdayCredit: Instagram @23_carraThe football legend’s daughter turned 21Credit: Instagram @23_carraCarragher wrote the message on InstagramCredit: Instagram @23_carraMia also has a large social media followingCredit: Instagram @23_carraCarragher, 47, shared a host of photos of himself and Mia throughout the years.The pictures included days out that the father and daughter had together as well as snaps from holidays.The Liverpool legend penned a touching message to Mia as he urged her to chase her dreams.He wrote: “Happy 21st birthday Mia.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Twenty one babe, I can’t believe it!”I didn’t have a clue you’d be everything I wished you would be, but you are, beautiful, funny, sporty, talented & a heart of gold.”Please never change and don’t let anyone ever stop you from achieving your dreams.”Looking forward to you making me laugh today the way you have for the last 21yrs.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”I’m unbelievably proud of you my girl and I love you more than you will ever know.”Mia has a large social media following of her own with over 87k fans on Instagram.Jamie Carragher in huge row with Gary Neville over Arsenal title prediction and striker claimMia has over 87k followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @23_carraShe also has an acting credit for appearing in One Night in IstanbulCredit: Instagram @23_carraShe regularly keeps them updated with her holidays and stunning modelling pictures.Mia also has an acting credit for her appearance in the sport comedy movie One Night in Istanbul.The film is based on fans’ efforts to go and watch Liverpool win the Champions League in 2005.She also briefly appeared on CBS Sports’ coverage after phoning her father while he was on live TV.Carragher also has a son, James, who has followed his footsteps into football.The defender currently plays for League One club Wigan Athletic and has switched allegiances to appear for the Malta international side. More

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    ‘No way I could say it on TV’ – Man Utd icon Paul Scholes reveals emotional reason he didn’t answer question on Overlap

    PAUL SCHOLES has opened up on the challenges of having a child with “severe special needs”.The Manchester United legend’s son Aiden, 20, was diagnosed with autism as a child and is non-verbal.Paul Scholes’ son Aiden, pictured in his arms, has severe autismCredit: GettyAiden is now 20-years-old and non-verbalCredit: instagramDuring today’s episode of The Overlap, Scholes was asked what has had the “biggest impact” on his life.In the show, which is yet to air, the former England star did not answer.But Scholes, 42, subsequently posted on Instagram to clarify his true feelings.The TNT Sports pundit wrote on his Story: “Just filmed an Overlap and we were asked the question. What has had the biggest impact on our lives, to which I couldn’t answer even though I knew…READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Without question having a boy with severe special needs, wishing he was normal every single day and then realising how lucky I am when I see another family that are worse off than we are.”The undoubted impact it has on his brother and sister kills me every single day…”No way I could that say that in front of people or on Telly…”Bye.”Most read in FootballScholes, 42, opened up on his Instagram StoryScholes has three children with wife Claire; Arron, 25, Alicia, 23, and Aiden.In 2021, the former midfielder opened up on the challenges of having an autistic son during a BBC documentary hosted by Paddy McGuinness.Man Utd star rang Paul Scholes and tried to confront him on training ground over pundit’s criticism Speaking to McGuinness, who has three autistic children, Scholes said: “For those first few years of being diagnosed you think he’s just delayed, eventually he’ll start talking.”When you get to 12, 13, 14… now he’s 16 it’s never going to happen. He’s never going to be neurotypical, but he’s great and you have to accept it.”Scholes went on to add: “I’ve never said this before. I’m looking at him thinking he might have to go into care. I just don’t know how you handle that.”During the chat, Scholes also revealed that Aiden’s initial diagnosis affected his performances on the pitch.The Man Utd legend said: “We got the diagnosis. We were playing Derby away. I was terrible, absolutely shocking.”I didn’t want to be there. Head was gone. I was worrying about autism, reading, trying to find out anything I could.”Key characteristics of autismThese are some features of autism that many people with it experience. Autism is a spectrum, so everyone shows symptoms differently.Sensitive to sensesAutistic people can be much more or less sensitive than non-autistic people to the five main senses (sight, sound, touch, taste and smell).This also extends to senses for balance, movement, spatial awareness and awareness of internal states, such as hunger and temperature.Social differencesPeople with autism may find social interactions harder because they have difficulty; interpratiting social cues; facial expressions; maintaining eye contact; recognising sarcasm.They may find tehy prefer to spend time alone because social interactions can be confusing. Autism can be verbal (someone who uses communication) or non-verbal (they use other means to communicate). People can flit between the two.Repetitive behaviours‘Restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests’ is often listed as a trait of autism, but the National Autistic Society says many people with the condition actually find these behaviours as positive and helpful.It is also sometimes referred to as stimming or self-regulatory behaviour.Examples include having a strong passion or interest in a hobby, repeated behaviours like hair twirling or rocking, and preference for routine or rules to be followed. Emotional dysregulationPeople with autism may struggle to manage feelings such as frustration, anxiety, or sadness, which could lead to a ‘meltdown’ (extreme or intense outburst of emotions) or ‘shutdown’ (withdrawal).Source: National Autistic Society More

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    Marc Cucurella wipes away tears as Chelsea star and Wag Claudia Rodriguez reveal emotional strain of son Mateo’s autism

    MARC CUCURELLA wiped away tears as he revealed the emotional strain of his son’s autism.Cucurella and partner Claudia Rodriguez opened up in series two of Amazon Prime’s Married To The Game.Marc Cucurella broke down in tears discussing his son’s autismCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosportCucurella and partner Claudia Rodriguez spoke on Married To The GameCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosportThe Chelsea left-back, 26, has three children with his long-term girlfriend – Mateo, Rio and Claudia. Mateo was diagnosed with autism soon after Cucurella completed his £65million transfer from Brighton to Stamford Bridge in 2022. Now the Spanish couple have bravely shared how their son’s neurodevelopmental condition impacts family life. Autism – especially in children – can make it difficult to process emotions and deal with changes, often prompting inconsolable tears.READ MORE ON CHELSEAThe spectrum of symptoms also includes being over- or under-sensitive to senses, having repetitive behaviours or struggling socially. Rodriguez said: “We saw that some things were different from the other kids. “We didn’t find too much help from the school and we had our worst months.”Every day we went together to drop Mateo off – I was pregnant with Rio as well – and we went back home every day crying.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAs she said that, Cucurella broke down in tears.Cucurella said: “Okay, your kid is autistic, but the parents are not ready with this so we need to learn a lot. ‘I played five minutes and it was my fault’ – Chelsea star opens up on horror season after big money transfer What is autism?Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an incurable, lifelong developmental condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others.It affects around one in 100 people in the UK and is three to four times more common in boys than in girls.Many people with ASD find it hard to understand other people’s feelings and emotions, and they may have difficulty holding conversations.When they are young, their language development may take longer and they can struggle to use facial expressions, using gestures to communicate instead.They may also find it hard to connect with other people and to hold eye contact with unfamiliar individuals.Many children with ASD like to follow a routine, and changes to this can cause distress.High functioning autism is an informal term some people use to describe those on the autism spectrum disorder.”When we speak about Mateo we always…” before choking up and added: “Ask Claudia now, I will come back soon.”Rodriguez encouraged her boyfriend as “really sensitive” about the whole situation. Speaking on holiday, Rodriguez explained: “It’s a lot of changes in the same week.”It’s difficult to be in other places, on another timetable, eating other food, on other plans with no school and no therapy. It’s hard for him.”You have to think about Mateo all the time. Sometimes you want to do some things but we can’t because it’s not good for Mateo.”Holidays is always difficult.”Key characteristics of autismThese are some features of autism that many people with it experience. Autism is a spectrum, so everyone shows symptoms differently.Sensitive to sensesAutistic people can be much more or less sensitive than non-autistic people to the five main senses (sight, sound, touch, taste and smell).This also extends to senses for balance, movement, spatial awareness and awareness of internal states, such as hunger and temperature.Social differencesPeople with autism may find social interactions harder because they have difficulty; interpratiting social cues; facial expressions; maintaining eye contact; recognising sarcasm.They may find tehy prefer to spend time alone because social interactions can be confusing. Autism can be verbal (someone who uses communication) or non-verbal (they use other means to communicate). People can flit between the two.Repetitive behaviours‘Restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests’ is often listed as a trait of autism, but the National Autistic Society says many people with the condition actually find these behaviours as positive and helpful.It is also sometimes referred to as stimming or self-regulatory behaviour.Examples include having a strong passion or interest in a hobby, repeated behaviours like hair twirling or rocking, and preference for routine or rules to be followed. Emotional dysregulationPeople with autism may struggle to manage feelings such as frustration, anxiety, or sadness, which could lead to a ‘meltdown’ (extreme or intense outburst of emotions) or ‘shutdown’ (withdrawal).Source: National Autistic SocietyThe emotional video ends with Rodriguez consoling and hugging Cururella as he continues to cry while holding her hand. The video – shared by Amazon Prime Video Sport – prompted a wave of classy replies from fans.One said: “This was so beautiful to watch, Cucurella and his partner Claudia are great parents.”Another wrote: “Cucu is a strong man!”A third added: “Mad respect man, love him even more now.”A fourth typed: “Respect. You’re a truly extraordinary father. You’ re doing great.”And a final user commented: “I hope football fans are more empathetic to footballers going forward when they have a bad form. They are human beings too and they could be going through personal challenges at home.”Read More on The SunCucurella has enjoyed a superb season under Enzo Maresca for Chelsea.After helping Spain win Euro 2024, he has proven himself to be a brilliant inverted full-back – chipping in with six goals and four assists. Mateo can struggle with changes which makes holidays trickyCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosportThe couple have three children togetherCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosportClaudia comforted Cucurella as the emotions poured outCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosport More

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    ‘Hearts fuller than ever’ – Max Verstappen & Kelly Piquet reveal birth of 1st baby with sweet pics hours before Miami GP

    MAX VERSTAPPEN has become a dad for the first time after girlfriend Kelly Piquet gave birth to a baby girl.The four-time world champion has announced the arrival of little Lily hours before practice begins at the Miami Grand Prix.Max Verstappen has become a dad for the first time after Kelly gave birthCredit: @MAXVERSTAPPEN1Lily Verstappen was born this weekCredit: @MAXVERSTAPPEN1Piquet was due to give birth on her May 6 due date – two days after the Miami GPVerstappen and Piquet shared a picture of tot gripping onto a finger with the words: “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily 🌸.”Our hearts are fuller than ever – you are our greatest gift. We love you so much.”The happy news led to lots of well-wishes from fans and family, with Verstappen’s sister Victoria writing: “Can’t wait to meet her!”Lily was born on Thursday and Verstappen later flew out to Florida on the same day.READ MORE F1 NEWSThe Dutchman had delayed his flight to be at home with Kelly in Monaco.That meant the new dad, 27, missed Thursday’s usual media briefing, as he was in the air in his private jet after leaving an airport in Nice.Despite the news coming hours before practice begins in Florida, title-challenging Verstappen is expected to race for Red Bull this weekend.A statement from the team said: “Please note that Max will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“All is well and he will attend track tomorrow for the race weekend.“We will not be offering any further comment at this time in respect towards the privacy of Max and his family.”Verstappen’s excruciating reaction to Jack Whitehall gag at F1 new season launch event Practice 1 takes place on Friday lunchtime Miami time – six hours behind the time zone in Monaco – with sprint qualifying later at 9:30pm GST. There is then the sprint race at 12pm on Saturday plus qualifying for the Grand Prix at 4pm.Lights out on race day is 24 hours later at 4pm on Sunday.Verstappen – who picked up his only weekend win in Japan this season – will try and cut the gap on Oscar Piastri.The Australian sits top of the drivers’ standings on 99 points, ten clear of McLaren team-mate Lando Norris – with Verstappen third on 87.Brazilian model Piquet, 36, is the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet and has a five-year-old daughter, Penelope, with ex-F1 driver Daniil Kvyat.Read More on The SunVerstappen and Piquet started dating in 2020 – four years after meeting at a dinner – after her relationship with Kvyat ended.The Dutchman revealed that hates being famous and wants to spend more time with his family in a new Viaplay documentary this week.Verstappen is set to race in Miami this weekend after his baby’s arrivalDutch champion Verstappen and Piquet have been together for five yearsVerstappen celebrates his first world championship title with Piquet in 2021 More