What a man.
There was a heartwarming moment on the pitch at Goodison Park recently. Francis Conmey, a lifelong Everton supporter with Asperger’s syndrome, met his hero Seamus Coleman.
Francis has been an Everton fan all his life and, in August, he almost got over to see his beloved Toffees play Hadjuk Split in a Europa League qualifier.
Francis shares a passion for Everton with Eoin Mulligan and, having met in Supermac’s where Eoin works, the two have formed a bond over the Premier League club.
💙 | Two Irish Toffees and the generosity of Seamus Coleman.
Another heartwarming tale from the #EvertonFamily. #BlueCrimbo #AutismAwareness pic.twitter.com/UrBADwgpNg
— Everton (@Everton) December 12, 2017
Their story went viral earlier this year and, although they raised enough money to attend the Hadjuk Split game, Francis fell sick just hours before and couldn’t make it.
The pair decided to re-start their fundraising efforts and were able to meet their target and attend the clash with West Ham United thanks to Seamus Coleman.
The Republic of Ireland captain donated €2,000 and it allowed them to achieve their dream. Ahead of the Hammers game, Francis and Eoin received a ‘Blue Crimbo’ surprise. With that, they got to meet the Everton players and spend the day at Goodison Park which, most importantly, put a smile on Francis’ face.
Speaking about their experience, Eoin said:
“Myself and Francis first bonded over our love for Everton and his knowledge of the club, it’s history and football in general is incredible. I thought I knew my stuff about Everton but Francis really does know his history.
“Following the disappointment of our previous visit when Francis fell ill, we both wanted to come back and to have received such a generous donation from one of our own, Seamus Coleman, shows the measure of the man.
“This has been an amazing journey and we can’t thank Seamus and the Club enough for helping us come over to watch the match.
A brilliant story. And fair play to Coleman.
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