Fairs received a diagnosis of ependymoma in August 2023.
He had heart palpitations, right-sided weakness, headaches, and nausea for the previous eight months, but he was initially labelled with mental health issues and migraines.
His condition began to deteriorate, with West Ham telling his worried parents how he was failing in training because his “right hand and leg weren’t right”.

When Fairs finally had an MRI, they discovered a 9 cm tumor on the left side of his brain that was connected to his nervous system and had three external cysts.

Sadly, he could not be rescued, even though his tumours had reduced after multiple successful surgery.

Following his valiant fight with cancer, West Ham legend Mark Noble released the following statement on behalf of the entire West Ham United community: “I confirm with deep and profound grief the unfortunate demise of our U15 Academy custodian Oscar Fairs.

Everyone at the Academy loved Oscar; he was not only an excellent goalie but also a true West ham fan and a wonderful young man. Everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him will miss him dearly.

“I have great memories of Oscar playing in my garden; he was adored by Lenny, his son, and his teammates.” “He had a bright future ahead of him and was a kind, cheerful, well-behaved, and courteous young guy. It is simply heartbreaking that he was snatched from his friends and family at such a young age.

“This evening’s PL2 Under-21 match versus Stoke City has been postponed, along with all other planned youth games, out of respect.

“The club will eventually provide details about our plans to honour Oscar, and we’ll make sure his name is never forgotten at West Ham United.”

“We will make sure that Oscar’s name is never forgotten at West Ham United, and the club will soon provide details on our plans to honour him.

“Everyone at the Club sends their deepest sympathies to Oscar’s parents, Natalie and Russell, as well as his brother Harry. We respectfully request that the family’s privacy be maintained during this very trying time.”

“Rest in peace, brave Oscar.”

Fans also showered their tributes with messages like “Incredibly sad news, my heart goes to out his family.”

Another said: “Rest in peace, Oscar. You were a tiny warrior and a real fighter. I’m sending your family my warmest regards. Take it easy, tiny man! Xx.

A third wrote: “There are moments when life is truly unjust. Oscar, may you rest in peace.