Chelsea U21s with Momentum supported family

Players Kian Best, Justin Osagie, Ato Ampah, Max Merrick, Jesse Derry, and Harrison Murray Campbell all took part in the surprise event at St Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey.

The young football stars took time out from their training base in Cobham to spend the day with children receiving treatment for cancer and other serious conditions at the hospital. They chatted with patients, answered questions, played games, and posed for photos, before handing out special Chelsea FC goodie bags, creating lasting memories for everyone involved.

One mum, whose son Hassan met the Chelsea FC players and received a goodie bag from them said: “Hassan received a Chelsea bag from under-21 team which was unforgettable! He was very happy and excited when he came home, and he felt a sense of pride knowing it came from the Chelsea team. Opening the bag was almost magical -everything had a sense of belonging and it included colouring pencils and a special small Chelsea ball. The experience has made Hassan feel like he wants to join the football team when he grows up. We are very thankful; it is truly appreciated”.

Ciara, a Family Support Worker from Momentum attended the event. She said: “It was such a special afternoon for everyone involved, and you could really see how much it meant to the children, many of whom are big Chelsea fans. Spending time in hospital can be incredibly tough, and the days often feel long, so seeing the children’s faces light up when the players walked onto the ward was just wonderful. The footballers were so friendly and genuinely interested in getting to know the children. They shared fun football facts and the players helped to distract children who were hungry because they couldn’t eat before surgery.”

A huge thank you to Chelsea FC and particularly to Kian, Justin, Ato, Max, Jesse, and Harrison for giving our supported families a day they will never forget. A big thank you to the team at our partner hospital, St Peter’s, for helping to make the visit possible.

Find out more about our hospital partnerships here