Former British number one tennis player Elena Baltacha died of liver cancer at the young age of 30. Born in Ukraine and raised in Scotland, Baltacha revealed she had the illness in March reports the BBC. Understandably, her husband was heartbroken. At the age of 19, Baltacha was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis, a chronic liver condition which affects the immune system. Despite the illness, Baltacha went on to reach the Australian Open third round in 2005 and 2010, had career-high ranking of 49, was British number 1 and also won 11 singles titles. Tributes poured in for Baltacha from all corners including current British number one Laura Robson.
Lawn Tennis Association head of women's tennis Iain Bates said: 'Today we have lost a shining light from the heart of British tennis - a true role model, a great competitor and a wonderful friend. We have so many special memories to cherish, but this leaves a gaping hole for everybody in both British and women's tennis, and words simply cannot express how saddened we are by this news. All our thoughts are with Nino and the rest of Elena's family. We will miss you Bal.'
Her agent Eleanor Preston told Sky News: 'It was part of Bally's emotional make-up to be very stoic, she never once asked why me or why is this happening. She was incredibly strong and determined and that was who she was.
'She achieved an awful lot and in the context of having a serious liver condition that she struggled with since the age of 19. This is why she should be held up as a role model. She went through it all without the slightest bit of self-pity or ego.'
In her memory a fundraising event is going to be held called The Rally Against Cancer Rally for Bally, which will be held on June 15. A host of stars including Andy Murray, Ross Hutchins, Martina Navratilova, Tim Henman, Greg Rusedski, Jamie Murray, Jonny Marray, Anne Keothavong and Heather Watson have agreed to take part.
What is liver cancer?
It is a condition that can be caused by many factors including viral infections (hepatitis B and C), chronic alcoholism, certain food contaminants, genetic factors, cirrhosis of the liver. It is when the cells within the liver multiply unnaturally leading to formation of a mass or scar tissue. Scar tissue is a type of tissue that forms over a damaged area of the liver. It is the body's way of healing. Unfortunately this tissue leads to the improper functioning of the liver and can lead to cancer.
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