Steven Gerrard Makes Dreams Come True For Wirral Charity

Liverpool FC captain Steven Gerrard made dreams come true for a Wirral charity which helps children with cerebral palsy.

The Reds star joined in a group session with six youngsters at Stick ‘n’ Step in Wallasey.

His Steven Gerrard Foundation, established in January to support children with disabilities or with a history of neglect, has donated £5,000 to the group.

He encouraged youngsters to have a kickabout, before signing shirts and photos.

Steven said: “One of my friend’s sons has cerebral palsy and from a young age he’s been going to Stick ‘n’ Step.

“I’ve seen his progress and I know what Stick ’n’ Step does for children with cerebral palsy.

“I know that by supporting this charity the money will be well spent. The kids really progress and improve by coming here.”

Steven chatted freely with the boys and girls, a couple of whom were proudly sporting Liverpool shirts, and helped staff as the youngsters demonstrated their skills.

Cerebral Palsy affects one in every 400 UK children, often due to lack of oxygen in the brain through complications at birth.

It causes over-tightening or over-loosening of the muscles, leading to problems with sitting, standing, walking and talking.

But it does not affect intelligence and the conflict between mental wellbeing and physical disability can often be very frustrating for those with the condition.

But it was all smiles as the Reds captain helped youngsters remove their shoes for a kick around.

One asked whether Gerrard had “ever been sent off”.

Kerry Roe-Ely is a fundraiser at the charity, she said: “They all looked absolutely delighted.

“I’ve never seen them so excited and animated before.

“We take children from all over the North West, we have as many as 70 children coming twice a week.

“We try to get them to achieve through play.”

Kerry, who is originally from Florida, said the charity was “thrilled” to receive the £5,000, which will go towards maintaining the high standards of care and development already in place.

Kerry added: “We have to raise £250,000 every year so £5,000 is a big sum for us.”