Emily's Magical Day as Mascot

 

Emily is an inspirational local, young girl who is battling a life-limiting condition called Batten Syndrome. Batten Disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that causes blindness; epilepsy; difficulties sleeping; the decline of speech and swallowing skills; and a deterioration of fine and gross motor skills that result in the loss of mobility and unfortunately there is no cure for Batten Disease. 

 

Emily started to lose her vision in 2020 and is now severely visually impaired and on the blind register. Despite all the daily battles Emily faces, one of her true passions is football. Our Primary School team, work with Emily weekly through our Premier League Primary Stars Programme at her school and have seen her football skills and confidence flourish in recent months. 

 

On Saturday, After a mini tour of the MKM Stadium, Emily got to meet all of the players and First Team Head Coach Liam Rosenior. All of whom were lovely and signed Emily's autograph book as well as getting photos with her. Emily also got to have a kick around on the pitch before proudly leading the team alongside Hull City Defender Jacob Greaves to a packed out MKM Stadium crowd.  

 

Jacob wore ear defenders in support of Emily to put her at ease and both teams walked out of the tunnel at Emily’s pace. At the Tigers Trust, inclusion is at the heart of all we do; and this was a special moment for all! 

 

We would like to thank Club Partners DLMG for donating the place, Hull City for helping make this happen, Jacob for being a fantastic support on the day, Tigers Trust staff member Marc for assisting Emily throughout the experience and opponents Ipswich Town for being equally respectful. 

 

Emily had a fantastic day and can’t wait to get back to the MKM Stadium for another match soon! 

 

Emily’s family are working hard to raise awareness about Batten Disease and raising funds to ensure Emily makes special memories, you can read all about her story and how to support by clicking here.