Brave Bermondsey boy Harvey Brown will lead Millwall onto Wembley’s hallowed turf this Sunday, as they battle Barnsley for promotion to the Championship, writes Alex Yeates…
A life-long fan, seven-year-old Harvey will walk with his beloved team in front of thousands after months of planning behind the scenes.
Harvey has the rare Morquio syndrome, which stunts skeletal growth, leaving sufferers with weak bones, and a tendency to develop heart disease, and impaired vision and hearing – and supporting Millwall has been a great love of his.
Millwall are said to have been working long before Christmas to make this dream come true, and after Millwall drew with Bradford on Friday May 20 the deal was sealed.
Vikki, Harvey’s mum, said she was “overwhelmed” when the news came through while they were on a bus to hospital for treatment.
She said: “It came at a really nice moment as we were on our way to Great Ormond Street Hospital and Harvey was stressed about his treatment.
“Everyone was looking at me on the bus because I couldn’t stop crying. Harvey’s been bouncing off the walls. He was telling all the nurses “I’m going to Wembley, I’m going to Wembley!”.
“It was a challenge getting him to bed last night. I think the smile on his face will take a while to come off.
“It is hard for us as parents as there’s so much he can’t do. To actually see him with that smile on his face makes a big difference.
“He doesn’t see himself as different to anyone else and he believes he can do anything. If I can see through my tears I will enjoy the day.”
The football club has played an important part in Harvey’s life as they supported a campaign to get him and 77 other children in the UK suffering from Morquio syndrome the vital medication Vimizim funded on the NHS.
Lions boss Neil Harris said: “It was an absolute no-brainer from our point of view. The lads have really taken a shine to Harvey from the first time he came to the training ground with his fantastic smile and positive attitude. He has the real heart of a lion and we are honoured to have him as our mascot on Sunday.”
The match kicks off at 3pm on Sunday May 29 with the winner getting promoted to the Championship.