Midway through the 2022–23 season, the Irish midfielder experienced a major setback in his personal life.

After his brother’s leukemia was discovered a few weeks after the birth of his son Paddy, the 29-year-old had a difficult period off the field.

Laura, Forde’s partner, complained of feeling unwell and had an MRI, which revealed she had a brain tumour.

Forde took a two-month hiatus from his professional obligations because he had a lot going on off the field.

Forde’s story has been told in the documentary Welcome to Wrexham. In the first episode of season two, the Irishman explained why he felt he needed to take a temporary break from football:

“How could I go out and perform when I have something so serious in the back of my head? It would have been unfair on myself and the team. The support we have had from the club has been amazing.

In the latest episode of the docuseries, which focused on Wrexham’s crucial meeting with Yeovil Town towards the end of their historic promotion-winning season, Forde delivered an update on the most testing period of his career.

Forde acknowledged that the Deadpool actor “did not have to do” the expensive second opinion for Laura, which the Hollywood star Reynolds had financed.

The Forde family will be eternally grateful for the support that they have received at Wrexham.

Executive director Humphrey Ker called that moment “special” and said it was his favorite goal of a season to remember. Forde has since made ten appearances for Wrexham in all competitions.