Patients from the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital sat shoulder-to-shoulder with their footballing heroes, when they joined in this year’s official Manchester City team photo.
Players from both the men’s and women’s squads welcomed the brave youngsters as honorary members for the day, giving them the chance to momentarily forget about their illnesses and have some fun.
The six children, aged nine to 14 years-old, are all receiving on-going treatment for a range of life-threatening illnesses and were referred to the Club by the hospital as big Blues who needed a little lift.
Along with participants from the Club’s charity, City in the Community, the unbeknown youngsters were surprised on arrival at the City Football Academy, with their very own 2016/17 full home kit.
Adam Finch, aged nine from Stockport, is undergoing treatment for a brain tumour and was given pride of place next to Nolito in the shoot. His mum, Clare Finch, said: “After such a difficult year in hospital it was so nice to receive such a treat for Adam and was lovely to see a big smile on his face. Adam really had the most wonderful day, so I’d like to thank everyone at Manchester City for helping make his dreams come true.”
Ella Travis, aged ten from Stockport, was thrilled to discover she would be meeting the entire Manchester City Women’s team. Her mum, Andrea, said: “Ella had an amazing time and is still smiling, even though she isn’t feeling too good. Her comment on the whole experience: ‘it was worth being poorly for.’
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“I think the highlight was trying Karen Bardsley’s keeper gloves on (above) – she was such a lovely lady and I can’t thank the Manchester City Women enough for giving Ella memories that she will treasure forever.”
Sarah Naismith, Head of Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity commented: “All the players really went the extra mile to ensure our patients felt special and had a wonderful day.
“Visits like this really do lift the children’s spirits and give them a much deserved treat during their time at hospital. The support we have received over the years from the club has really helped us to make a big difference to many poorly patients at our Children’s Hospital.”
Manchester City is proud to work closely with the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital each season, providing support for its patients through a variety of activities.
Alex Williams, City in the Community Ambassador said: “Along with City in the Community participants, the Club welcomes local patients to the team photo each year and we were delighted to include our women’s squad for the very first time.
“These brave youngsters are an inspiration to players and staff alike and we hope that the afternoon they spend with us will provide impactful memories, that will last a lifetime.”
