Sheffield mum living with stage 4 breast cancer gifted daughter with special day out meeting footballing hero
Willow, a charity that provides uplifting experiences for seriously ill young adults aged 16 to 40, arranged the exclusive visit for Hayley, her husband and their two children
A Sheffield mum living with stage 4 breast cancer watched her daughter meet her idol - England and Arsenal star Leah Williamson - during an “extra special” day set up by a national charity.
Hayley Reed, 39, used her special day out - provided by charity Willow - to fulfil daughter’s dream of meeting her footballing hero at Arsenal’s training ground.
Becoming a fan of the club helped the youngster through some difficult times, said a Willow spokesperson, making the meeting “especially meaningful”.
Speaking about the meeting, Hayley said it gave her family memories they will “treasure forever.“ She said: “It made it all worthwhile watching my daughter meet her idol.
“She and all the other Arsenal ladies were so down to earth and chatty with us and Katie McCabe even gave my daughter a pair of signed boots.
“To see a smile on my daughter’s face made it extra special. We have amazing memories that my children can remember forever.”
Willow, a charity that provides uplifting experiences for seriously ill young adults aged 16 to 40, arranged the exclusive visit for Hayley, her husband and their two children.
The family were welcomed to the Arsenal training centre in London Colney, Hertfordshire, where they were given access behind the scenes before meeting Williamson following a training session.
Speaking about the impact of her diagnosis, Hayley said her illness has changed every aspect of her life.
“I used to work in a food store and looked after my children, who are now 16 and 12, with my husband, Ryan,” she said.
“I liked going swimming and doing things with my family. My illness has taken a lot from me. I have lost all confidence from losing my hair, knowing I'm not going to get better and that I am on chemo for the rest of my life.”
During the visit Williamson personally guided the family around the training facilities, including the indoor pitch, physiotherapy areas and press conference room.
The day also included the chance to meet some of the biggest names in women’s football, including Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo and Katie McCabe.
Willow has worked closely with Arsenal for many years, enabling beneficiaries like Hayley and her family to enjoy unique experiences and meet their sporting heroes.
This summer Leah Williamson is also supporting Willow’s fundraising efforts through Williamson’s Walk, a challenge encouraging people to walk 100 kilometres in July.
More information about Willow and Williamson’s Walk can be found at the charity’s website: www.willowfoundation.org.uk/events/williamsons-walk