Everton Goodison Park Away Stand
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In 2022, the Duignan family received devastating news that their son, Charlie, had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Born in 2015, Charlie was an active child who loved sports, particularly rugby, football, and cricket. His passion for Everton FC was inherited from his father, and his dream was to see the team play in their new stadium. Despite experiencing headaches and sickness in April 2022, Charlie continued to attend school and participate in sports. However, by May, he was diagnosed with the tumor.
Yvette Duignan said: “There were no other signs apart from the headaches and sickness. We were told the news two days before his birthday in May. You never expect it is going to happen to you.”
Charlie underwent surgery to remove the tumor, which left him with posterior fossa syndrome, affecting his ability to speak, write, and walk. Despite these challenges, Charlie’s determination to return to normal life was unwavering.
Yvette Duignan said: “He had a real love for life, he was very strong despite being so young. He really wanted to get better and carry on with his life as normal.”
After a period of recovery, Charlie returned to school full-time. Unfortunately, in November, the family learned the cancer had spread to his spine, and Charlie was given only weeks to live. Despite his condition, he continued attending school and was able to enjoy a visit from Bristol City FC players and messages from Everton players.
Charlie passed away on January 11, 2024. To honor his memory, his family traveled from Devon to Merseyside to watch Everton play against Brighton. The club supported the family by arranging a personalized flagstone at the new stadium entrance, a touching tribute to Charlie’s love for the team.
Yvette Duignan said: “It was an emotional day but it was lovely to be at Everton for Charlie. Everton had been so supportive in helping us arrange the trip and even helped organize a special personalized flag stone at the new entrance to the ground which we visited yesterday.”
The family also established a foundation in Charlie’s name, Charlie’s Beach School Exmouth, which opened in September 2024. This charity aims to keep Charlie’s spirit alive by supporting other children and families facing similar challenges. The Duignan family continues to cherish Charlie’s memory, ensuring his legacy endures both on and off the pitch.
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