A mum was left in tears after what Liverpool FC players led by captain Virgil van Dijk did for her son. Archie White, 12, is currently receiving treatment in Alder Hey. Archie was recently diagnosed with myeloid sarcoma – a rare form of cancer condition that affects less than one in a million children.
He is from Wrexham and is a huge supporter of the town’s flourishing football team, bringing his shirts and scarf with him to the children’s hospital in West Derby. His mum Sarah Jane Kyffin said: “He’s been so brave. He’s kept his cheeky personality throughout and brought Wrexham with him.”
The Liverpool squad go to the children’s hospital every Christmas and this year was no different. The footballers, along with head coach Arne Slot spent time with patients and their families.
In a video posted on LFC’s social media channels, Jones can be heard joking: “We’ve got a big job on our hands trying to make you a fan of us, haven’t we?”
Archie later said: “I was nervous, but had a very, very good time. I enjoyed it.” He revealed Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk was his favourite visitor after he spent time on Snapchat speaking to Archie’s friends.
The club’s post was accompanied by the caption: “A great flag bearer for @Wrexham_AFC, you should be proud.” The League One club later replied, saying: “We’re all behind you, Archie!”
In a post on X after the video was published, Sarah said: “Amazing time with LFC. Can’t thank Alder Hey enough for going out of there way to make it special for Archie, he had great banter with them and proudly told them who he supported! Virgil van Dijk was an absolute legend, snapchatting too with Archie.
Sarah added that Van Dijk also confirmed he is a big fan of the hit ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ documentary, which charts the club’s rise under owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. In a further post about the visit Sarah said “I swear I’m not crying!” followed by several crying emojis. She added: “Thank you again Alder Hey and LFC.”
Speaking about the visit generally, Van Dijk added: “For us to be here and to make these kids smile is such a good thing to do. I know it’s a nice surprise for all of them.
“Alder Hey is an amazing hospital with amazing people that work here. It’s a special place where obviously hopefully everyone gets better. To have the people working here being there for the people that are struggling, and the kids especially, it’s amazing what they do. I have a lot of respect for them.”
