As proud sponsors of Bristol Rovers Academy we are only too pleased to promote this very worthy cause that is taking place at Saturday’s Peterborough game.
Emilia Harvie, daughter of our Head of Academy Coaching, Adrian Harvie, tragically lost her battle with a rare condition called, Alexander Disease, earlier this year at the age of just eight.
Emilia was diagnosed with the condition in 2014 after suffering a seizure. The disease is a debilitating illness which affects the neurological pathways in the body.
There are only a reported 500 people worldwide who have this rare disease, so research and evidence of the condition is very limited.
Emilia tragically lost her brave battle on September 14th, 2019.
Throughout Emilia’s illness and since her passing, the family have taken the unselfish approach of doing everything possible to help others going through similar situations, undertaking in events such as charity bike rides to raise awareness and funds for Metabolic Support.
You can watch more of Emilia’s story here…
To celebrate the life of Emilia and to show support to the Harvie family, the Club has arranged a unique donation opportunity at our home fixture against Peterborough United.
Emilia had a fond affinity with cuddly toys and we are encouraging supporters to join in a donation of items such as teddy bears or soft toys at our upcoming fixture at the Mem on the 21st December, inviting supporters to throw the items onto the pitch at 2:45pm.
All items donated on the day will be delivered to Bristol Children’s Hospital in the days before Christmas and we encourage supporters to bring new teddies and protect your donation in a small, ideally clear, bag.
If you are not able to attend the game on the 21st, December, you can also donate a teddy via post by sending your donation to – The Memorial Stadium, Filton Avenue, BS7 0BF. Please make sure to write ‘A Match For Emilia’ on the parcel. Donations must be at the Memorial Stadium by the 23rd, December, so they can be taken down to Bristol Children’s Hospital.
We are also encouraging supporters to donate to Metabolic Support, a charity that supported the Harvie family through Emilia’s illness. To donate to the charity please click HERE.
On the day, the players will warm up in special t-shirts and purple armbands throughout the match and there will be a minutes applause prior to kick-off.
We have seen our fanbase show widespread support to causes in recent weeks, such as the foodbank collection, and we hope that they will join us on the 21st in celebrating the life of Emilia.