Harry meets his West Ham Heroes
Harry is 11-years-old and comes from a family of lifelong West Ham fans. Here his mum Elizabeth shares how Saint Francis Hospice is continuing to support Harry after the death of his dad Ollie and why meeting his football heroes meant so much to him.
When my husband Ollie’s cancer spread earlier this year, we were referred to Saint Francis Hospice. At first, we didn’t know much about hospice care. I thought hospices were just where people go to die, but the care team was incredible.
Julia and Caroline from the Hospice Community Team helped with pain management, making sure Ollie had the right medication. They were so experienced, and patient, and they always listened to how Ollie was feeling and adjusted his care. That made a massive difference. Ollie also had reflexology sessions that really helped him relax. We could call the crisis helpline anytime, and someone always got back to us.
When Ollie died at home, Caroline called and talked me through everything. That support meant so much to me. Peter, who is a Child and Family Therapist with the hospice’s Family and Individual Support team, also gave me advice on how to talk to Harry.
Harry’s been talking to Peter since the summer holidays. They bonded over football. Peter would chat about West Ham, and that connection helped Harry open up. Peter met Ollie before he died. Ollie and I came to the hospice one time when Harry was meeting Peter and having that history really helped Harry after Ollie passed away. It gave him a sense of continuity and trust.
West Ham has always been a huge part of our family's life. Harry even did the Upton Park stadium tour when he was two, though he won’t remember it. He used to go to matches every week with his dad, Ollie, and his grandad, Michael.
Harry didn’t know we were going to meet the West Ham players at the hospice until the day itself. Peter had told Harry that West Ham had visited before, so Harry often asked me if they’d come again.
When the players walked into the hospice on 19th November, it was such a special moment. Harry was so excited, but also a little overwhelmed to be meeting his heroes. His dad would have been the one he’d have talked to about it.
The players were brilliant. They brought gifts and signed Harry’s shirt, which we’ll frame and hang on the wall. Freddie Potts came up to Harry and said, “Hi Harry, nice to meet you.” That was a lovely touch. They chatted about what it’s like to play for West Ham and he gave Harry tips for playing in defence. The players really took their time with the kids.
It was Harry who suggested raising money for Saint Francis Hospice at Ollie’s funeral. We raised over £3,700. Harry’s a big advocate for Peter and Saint Francis Hospice. Honestly, I don’t know what we would have done without them. When we got the news that Ollie’s cancer had spread, I searched everywhere for help for Harry and found nothing. Caroline’s referral was a lifesaver. Harry could see Peter during the holidays, and that made all the difference.
It’s awful that we’re in this situation, but Harry is so well supported by Saint Francis Hospice. Meeting the West Ham players was more than just a fun day, it was a reminder of his dad, of the things they loved doing together, and of the people who care about him now. Ollie was so proud to go to football with his dad and his son. Now I go to watch West Ham play with Harry and my father-in-law because it’s important to keep the tradition alive.
