West Ham Players Make Special Visit to Saint Francis Hospice
Christmas came early at Saint Francis Hospice with a special visit from West Ham United players.
Christmas arrived early at Saint Francis Hospice when players from West Ham United’s men’s and women’s teams dropped in for a heartwarming visit to deliver gifts and spend time with people under the charity’s care.
On Wednesday 19 November, centre-back Max Kilman and midfielders James Ward-Prowse and Freddie Potts from the men’s first team, along with striker Riko Ueki, midfielder Sarah Brasero, and defender Anouk Denton from the women’s squad, met people on the ward, bringing festive cheer and unforgettable memories.
The players presented West Ham gifts including neck pillows, coffee cups, teddies and hats, and spent time chatting with people and young fans supported by the hospice. They signed shirts and handed over club merchandise.
Norman, a lifelong West Ham fan currently on the ward, said, “I was over the moon to meet the players. It made me very emotional. I used to watch Freddie’s dad, Steve Potts, when he played for West Ham. I shared a story from 1975 when I was at a game with my son, who was only four years old. The ball flew into the crowd and hit him in the face. Billy Bonds stopped the game and came over to check on him. That’s the kind of club West Ham is.”
Bridget, another devoted fan, returned to the hospice with her three grandchildren after spending three weeks on the ward.
“The players were absolutely fantastic,” said Bridget. “They were so good with the children and were genuinely interested in them and asking them about themselves. They were so generous with their time and energy. I’m so grateful to everyone for arranging this, I know it was a real team effort.”
Bridget also spoke to the players about the care she received and the difference it made to her life.
“When I came in, I was so ill I didn’t know where I was,” said Bridget.
“Within a short time, they had me sorted. I was on the ward for nearly three weeks, and now I’ve been home for three weeks loving life. Saint Francis Hospice is the most amazing place. Everyone here is fantastic.”
Bridget even brought along a matchday programme from the 1980 FA Cup Final, where West Ham beat Arsenal 1- 0 thanks to a goal from club legend and Saint Francis Hospice patron Sir Trevor Brooking.
Bridged added, “I’ve been a West Ham fan since I was seven or eight. I went to school near Upton Park and used to go to night games. Now I’ve persuaded my granddaughters to support West Ham too! I’m hoping we’ll see the return of trophy days. I want to stay healthy enough to watch them do well this season.”
Speaking about the visit, Max Kilman said, “It was wonderful to see all the patients, especially the West Ham fans, and share their experiences. It’s an important time of year to be with them, so it was special.”
Sarah Brasero added, “It was so nice seeing everyone and knowing we made their day. It was lovely to meet so many West Ham supporters too.”
