England captain Wayne Rooney has joined a host of leading lights from the sporting world in supporting 13-year-old Milan Patel who is battling cancer for a third time.
The youngster, who plays for Kenilworth Wardens FC in Warwickshire, was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer two years ago.
Milan responded well to treatment, but when the disease returned, he said: “I fought it once, I’ll do it again.”
Inspired by young footballer Milan Patel battling cancer. Keep fighting mate! @KenWardFC #SupportMilansThirdBattle pic.twitter.com/fWvZ5jTJYC
— Wayne Rooney (@WayneRooney) September 20, 2014
He was true to his word, although sadly the cancer returned again this autumn, leading his club coach Paul Calver to launch the social media campaign #supportmilansthirdbattle.
The campaign calls on people to show their support by buying blue and yellow wristbands to raise awareness for Milan’s battle and money for Teenage Cancer Trust, which last year was chosen by The Football Association as its official charity partner.
Proud wardens jnr player carrying match ball out for @adidasUK @MCFC v @FCBayernEN in @ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/c9b4HZJFD9
— Kenilworth Warden FC (@KenWardFC) November 25, 2014
Over 1,800 wristbands have been sold with £7,000 already donated to Teenage Cancer Trust, with further events planned by Kenilworth Wardens.
This week Kenilworth Wardens striker James Calver did his bit to raise support for the cause by leading Manchester City and Bayern Munich on to the pitch ahead of the Champions League clash at Etihad Stadium.
And Rooney is just one of a series of sporting stars to show their support, with former Germany international Dietmar Hamann, Wolves legend Steve Bull, England and Aston Villa midfielder Joe Cole and host of Stoke City players all donning wristbands.
Rooney tweeted: “Inspired by young footballer Milan Patel battling cancer. Keep fighting mate!”
Wristbands can be bought from Kenilworth Wardens FC, while you can show your support on Twitter by using the hashtag #supportmilansthirdbattle and tweeting @KenWardFC.
