RIVER RHODES has become a footballing hero in recent weeks, after the brave boy was filmed having a kickabout with Harry Maguire.
River, 7, is fighting cancer.
River put the ball through Harry Maguire’s legs in a touching video online.
He spent time in Manchester to receive treatment, and touched the hearts of Manchester United stars and football fans worldwide alike.
Who is River Rhodes?
River comes from a family of Wolves fans from the Midlands and is being hailed as an inspiration for his fighting spirit.
He recently met Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, who dedicated a goal to River against Leeds, but has also met Cristiano Ronaldo and Jack Grealish – both of whom were touched by his story.
He has earnt plaudits across the footballing world, with tributes pouring out online in support of the ‘little legend’:
Jesse Lingard said: “You’re an inspirational young man battling cancer and winning. Stay strong and keep fighting.”
John Terry added: “An absolute pleasure meeting you today River. Stay strong mate.”
Harry Maguire said: “A great chat and even better kick about. Thanks River. Stay strong.”
He is a brave hero and an inspiration to everyone he meets.
Why is River ill and what treatment has he had?
River was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancer of soft tissue, connective tissue or bone, which accounts for 53 per cent of childhood cancers.
It was picked up by his Mother and a teacher, who noticed his eye was starting to droop in September 2021, although it was initially thought to be hay fever.
A cancerous lump was found upon further inspection, and chemotherapy quickly followed, which thankfully has had a positive effect so far.
So far he has had chemotherapy through a Hickman line – which will last a total of 12 months, until December, as well as radiotherapy in Manchester.
Nearly half way now lads Radiotherapy done .. @HarryMaguire93 @ManUtd just my chemo left now till December … love you all and thanks for the support .. @Riverthechamp
spreading the love of football pic.twitter.com/KcIJjnZoYu
— Riverthechamp RR7
How can I donate to River’s fund?
A GoFundMe page was set up by a family friend on behalf of River’s mother, this is to ‘Help the family cope with the financial strain of daily hospital visits, parking fees, and enable the family to buy Christmas gifts that will bring a smile to his face.’
It stands at £7,000 at the time of publication.
We urge anyone who can to donate to River’s fund, to help support him on his road to recovery – donate to River Rhodes’ treatment fund.
