Sporting legends record messages of support for much-loved Sheffield grandad on ‘end of life’ care due to coronavirus

Sporting legends have recorded messages of support for a much-loved Sheffield grandad battling coronavirus in hospital.
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Alan Griffiths, known to his loved ones as Griff, contracted the virus three weeks ago.

Granddaughter Anna Griffiths says that, while her grandad has beaten the disease, the 69-year-old has been placed on ‘end of life’ care due to damage caused by the virus.

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To show the Sheffield Wednesday supporter that he’s not alone, she came up with the idea of requesting messages of support from her grandad’s sporting heroes- and they didn’t disappoint her.

Jermain Defoe was one of many sporting legends who recorded a message of goodwill for Alan, pictured right.Jermain Defoe was one of many sporting legends who recorded a message of goodwill for Alan, pictured right.
Jermain Defoe was one of many sporting legends who recorded a message of goodwill for Alan, pictured right.

She said: “I’ve received videos from Sheffield Wednesday players showing their love and support to my grandad, as well as Micheal Vaughan the former England cricket player and Jermain Defoe.

“I want to show my grandad that a lot of people care about him and that we are all together not just as a city, but nationally and even internationally.

“As he’s classed as ‘end of life’, we haven’t got a time limit.

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“I’m trying to make the last few moments that he’s got very special and sentimental to us as a family.”

Michael Vaughan and Liam Palmer urged the 69-year-old to 'keep fighting'.Michael Vaughan and Liam Palmer urged the 69-year-old to 'keep fighting'.
Michael Vaughan and Liam Palmer urged the 69-year-old to 'keep fighting'.

Videos and pictures have been sent by Lucas Joao, Micheal Vaughan, Barry Banan, Daniel Pudil, John Beresford, Jose Semedo, Micheal Hector, Jermain Defoe, Nicky Weaver and Liam Palmer.

“We are still getting them through as the day goes on but those are the ones for now,” added Anna.

In his message Sheffield Wednesday’s Liam Palmer said: “During this difficult time, keep fighting, keep that fighting spirit. From me and all the lads at Sheffield Wednesday.”

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