Premier League stars from Arsenal have lent their support to a four-year-old cancer patient attempting to gather £339,000 for life-saving medical care. Zach Fleming, a supporter of the Gunners, was only two years old when doctors found he had rare stage 4 neuroblastoma.
The club welcomed Zach to Saturday's 2-0 victory against Everton at the Emirates Stadium to help his fundraising efforts. He and his 11-year-old brother Alex spoke with manager Mikel Arteta, club legend Ian Wright, and team members Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, and Eberechi Eze.
During the visit, Zach received an autographed jersey intended for auction to benefit his campaign. His 40-year-old mother Edwina, who lives in Hackney, North London, shared her gratitude. "The support that me and my family have received in regards to Zach's diagnosis has been amazing," she said. She added, "I can't put into words the experience that Zach and his brother received on Saturday. They couldn't do enough to assist us and make sure we had one of the most magical days that my kids could ever imagine. I'd like to say a massive, massive thank you to the Arsenal fans for all their support and heartfelt messages."
Stage 4 neuroblastoma impacts roughly 100 children in the UK annually. The condition happens when tumor cells travel to other areas of the body. Zach underwent 18 months of intensive medical care at Great Ormond Street Hospital but suffered a relapse, which required him to leave school.
His family wants to fund CAR T-cell therapy in Rome, Italy, believing it will help him defeat the cancer and return to his active lifestyle. The family's JustGiving page has collected about £100,000 so far. Solving Kids' Cancer UK is backing the campaign. The family stated, "Before he became ill, Zach was an active little boy who loved running around and playing with his brother. Through it all, he has never stopped being Zach."
