A lifelong Chesterfield FC fan, John Leverton, tells us about how proud he is of his grandson at the recent home match against Halifax Town.

John’s grandchildren, daughter, and son-in-law were at the match bucket collection to help raise vital funds for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice. Adam (15), who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease and uncontrolled epilepsy, has been supported by the hospice since the age of six.

Adam and his family, Kerry, Karl and Isla most recently enjoyed craft activities held at the North Anston hospice and have had support over the years with overnight stays and care for Adam.

Both John and Adam are celebrating milestone birthdays next month, when John turns 80 and Adam will be 16. Doctors originally told the family that Adam would be unlikely to live past the age of seven.

John said: "Adam and I have always had a special bond and I’m so proud of him for defying the odds and going from strength to strength, he really is remarkable.  It’s wonderful that Chesterfield FC are helping Bluebell Wood with their fundraising and raising awareness for a cause that’s supported Adam and the family.  

"I went to my first ever football match at the age of 10, at Saltergate, the original ground, which means that come April when I turn 80, I’ve been a fan of them for 70yrs. I’m happy to have my grandson Adam supporting Chesterfield FC with me. 

"Over the past four years I’ve bought Adam a football kit and although he can’t vocalise to tell us, we believe Adam wears his kit with pride."

Courtney Beddingham, Regional Fundraiser at Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, said: “We raised almost £250 at the bucket collection before the match, and we’d like to say a huge thank you to Chesterfield FC and all the fans for their support.

"Every penny raised helps us to support local children and families like Adam’s."

You can find out more about Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and how you can support them by visiting their website at www.bluebellwood.org