A Church Stretton mother and son are planning a charity football match for the second year running, to raise money for the organisation that supported their family through a devastating cancer journey.
Emma Rogers and her son Adam were inspired to fundraise by Emma’s nephew, Kean Hall, who, in 2009, when he was just four years old, was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer.
Kean, an avid supporter of Shrewsbury Town FC, was treated at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, where Kean’s mum Vicky, stepdad Craig and brother Lucas were grateful to be able to stay at Ronald McDonald House Birmingham during Kean’s treatment.
Emma, 46, said “It was an incredibly traumatic time for the whole family. We knew Kean was in the best place, but he needed lengthy treatment, and it was so far away from home. Staying at the Ronald McDonald House meant that they could be close to Kean and didn’t have to worry about hotels and travel costs. Kean was in and out of hospital several times, so the Ronald McDonald House became like a second home. We’ll never forget the incredible love and support they offered our family at the worst time of their lives.”
Tragically, Kean’s cancer returned, and he died in September 2022, aged just 16. Following a successful charity football match held at Russell Meadow in Church Stretton last April, Emma and Adam are hoping to repeat their success with another football event on Saturday, May 5 this year.
Emma said: “We were thrilled to raise £8,000 for the charity last year, which was enough to sponsor a room in the Birmingham House for a whole year.
“Kick-off is at 11am and we’re encouraging people to join us on the day to cheer on the teams and support Ronald McDonald House Charities UK. There’ll be refreshments available and live music, an auction, and disco at the King’s Arms afterwards. Kean was passionate about football and went to all Shrewsbury Town’s matches, home and away. This is a fitting tribute to Kean, who we miss so much.”
To find out more about Emma’s charity football match please contact rog1977@live.co.uk
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