A father from Motherwell has died just hours before his family was set to celebrate an early Christmas with him. Grant Hardie, aged 40, was receiving end-of-life care after being diagnosed with bowel cancer earlier this year. His wife, Susan, and their 10-year-old daughter, Autumn, had planned to mark the festive occasion a month early at his hospice bedside on Sunday, November 23. However, Grant passed away on Saturday night. The heartbreaking news came shortly after it was reported that generous well-wishers had brought Santa and a sack of presents to Autumn's door as Grant's condition rapidly deteriorated. Susan, 43, expressed her grief, stating, "Autumn was so brave and has been my absolute rock. Grant was and is my soulmate and life will never be the same. We love him so much and are so grateful to neighbours, friends and work colleagues for all their help and well wishes." Grant first raised concerns with his GP in April after noticing blood in his stool. He was advised to attend A&E, where initial assessments suggested an issue with his appendix. However, further examinations revealed he had terminal cancer affecting his bowel and perineal area. Despite the devastating diagnosis, the family remained hopeful as Grant underwent treatment, including chemotherapy. By September, doctors informed him that the cancer was too advanced for further treatment. He was subsequently moved to St Andrews Hospice, where his health declined rapidly, leaving him unable to communicate with his family in his final days. In preparation for their early Christmas celebration, Susan had organised for her and Autumn to wear festive jumpers and spend quality time with Grant. Tragically, he lost his battle with cancer at 9pm on Saturday evening. Since Grant's diagnosis, Susan has been dedicated to making every day meaningful for her family. Recently, the local business Wee Tait Events and Decor arranged for Santa to visit their home, bringing gifts donated by kind-hearted supporters, including a signed Hearts football for Autumn, a passionate football fan. Susan has vowed to do everything possible to ensure that Christmas remains special for her daughter. A crowdfunding campaign launched to help the family create cherished memories has raised £6,000 so far. Those wishing to support the family can contribute through the crowdfunding platform.