WEST Bromwich Albion is incredibly proud to launch the 'Albion Stars' programme.
'Albion Stars' looks to recognise and reward those Baggies who have gone above and beyond in their support of Albion, or who have been experiencing a tough time and so deserve an extra special surprise
The first 'Albion Star' is three year old Charlie Kidson. Charlie loves dinosaurs, football and Baggie Bird (he has great taste!).
In October 2017, Charlie's parents noticed he seemed a bit out of sorts, and he was having trouble going to the toilet. They immediately took him to Birmingham Children's Hospital and after a long night in A&E, Charlie had an ultrasound which showed a tumour within his prostate and bladder.
Doctors then diagnosed Charlie with Rhabdomyosarcoma which is a rare type of cancer in children. Fewer than 60 children are diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma in the UK every year, with most of those being under 10 years old.
A few days after his diagnosis, Charlie started chemotherapy and he has now completed 12 cycles to date. Within the next couple of weeks, Charlie and his family will travel to London to begin a course of radiotherapy.
Charlie has been an absolute warrior during this gruelling time, showing bravery and perseverance way beyond his tender years.
"Throughout all of his treatments and the pain he's suffered, Charlie still manages to smile and laugh every single day" says Charlie's Dad, Jake. "He's been so brave and has kept the whole family going with his positivity. I'm very proud of him".
Everyone at West Bromwich Albion is hopeful that Charlie and his family are now heading towards the end of treatment and we wish them all the best during this time, and for the future. We look forward to seeing him back at The Hawthorns cheering on the Baggies soon.
Throughout the 2018/19 season, we will be sharing more stories of our Albion Stars, and putting smiles on the faces of our incredibly worthy supporters with the programme.
If you know an Albion Star who you would like to nominate, you can do so by emailing stars@wbafc.co.uk with the details of who you're putting forward and why.