This will be a special moment for children who prove bravery comes in all tiny shapes and sizes.
Leighton Baines paid a visit to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, in Liverpool, and made their day.
The Everton fullback not only spent ample time with the mites but handed out presents and informed them of a very special surprise.
Everton have invited ’22 Little Heroes’ from the hospital to act as mascots for both them and Leicester City at the club’s next home game, this Saturday.
According to the club, the 22 children include a five-year-old boy who has cerebral palsy and pretends to be an Everton player when doing his exercises, a 14-year-old who helped to design the new hospital and an eight-year-old who has been treated at Alder Hey since birth, had three major heart operations and can now play football with his friends.
Baines, who recently became a patron for the hospital, said, “Every single one of the children’s stories is inspiring. They’ve been through some really difficult times, not just the kids but their families too, so we’re really honoured to be able to give them a special day at Goodison.
“They’re all big Evertonians so it means a lot to them, and from talking to some of the children it seems they’re really excited about it.”
The defender added, “It’s great to give these 22 special young people that opportunity to forget everything for a day and give them some really special memories.”
Fair play to all involved.
