Tuesday 18 November 2008

'Roomy'

Today as you may have heard the Football club called a press conference.
Present were Chris Todd, his Mum and Dad, partner Gemma and daughter Amylia. Also there were the Chairman, Manager, Chief executive and myself .
Chris announced that he has Leukemia. This, he explained, had only been discovered on Monday when the news was broken to him. 'Toddy' went on to explain a bit about the illness and his plan of attack. Further tests are to be done on Monday to find out more and to decide what form of treatment he will need.
Together with his Dad Steve he broke the news to his team mates before last night's game which was obviously distressing and a real shock for the boy's. It was surreal walking into a slient dressing room, usually the stereo is blasting and the mood is high, but for a while it was very quiet. Through 'Toddy's bravery in talking to the lad's and Paul Buckles' words afterwards we all knew the job in hand had to be done and it was. Tim Sills asked me in the warm up if he thought lifting 'Toddy's' shirt up would be appropriate and it was totally. It was fitting that Tim scored and raised it aloft.
Today, as with last night, Chris Todd showed he is a true man facing up to it, joking about it, and wishing the best for the lad's.
I have always had so much time for 'Toddy', he is a good laugh, as brave as a lion and a proper mate, the only thing that let's him down are his crazy tattoos, highlights and dress sense (only joking mate, can't wait to see Saturday's outfit!!!!).
As he said today, and last night, he will deal with this illness like he has everything in his life fighting all the way. I've no doubt 'Toddy' will beat it and soon be destroying people on the pitch again like he has in the past.
I actually phoned Chris on Monday night only 20 minutes after he had been told, my timing has always been shocking, he was very quiet and I'm not surprised. To be sat there watching TV one minute and then to hear you have Leukemia the next is not a normal experience but I couldn't think of anyone stronger to deal with it than Chris Todd.
To Chris, Gemma and Amylia, Steve, Julie and the rest of the Todd Clan.

We love you to bit's mate and you know our thoughts are with you and your lovely family.
See you soon
Greavsie and the lad's.

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