£12K raised in memory of Reds starlet
Merseyside children's hospital Alder Hey received a £12,000 donation yesterday raised by Liverpool FC Academy in memory of one of their young players.
Stephen's parents received such great support from Alder Hey that they have requested for all funds raised to go towards one of the rooms being built at the new hospital, complete with a bespoke bed for parents.
Clare White, director of charities for Alder Hey, said: "We are extremely grateful to receive these vital funds, which will help us deliver excellent care for poorly children.
"We know how hard it can be for families when a loved one is sick and the Packer's donation will go a long way in ensuring families not only get their privacy but that their children get access to the latest entertainment technology and be able to have family close by."
Stephen's father, Chris Packer, added: "We'd like to thank the Academy and everyone who has kindly donated money to such an important cause in Stevie's memory".
Yesterday, the Packer family were accompanied by Reds forward Luis Suarez as they were shown what the new room would look like.
"I admire the strength of the family. It must have been difficult to come back to the hospital but they find more strength from being able to help other families who are going through what they did," commented Suarez.
The money raised was a result of the Liverpool Academy staff taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge in May and fundraising at the inaugural Stephen Packer Memorial Cup in August.
Academy director, Frank McParland, said: "It has been a real honour to be able to raise funds in young Stevie's name. He was an absolutely brilliant kid and we all miss him. We will continue to support the Packer family in any way we can."