A YOUNG Wrexham AFC fan received the surprise of his life when striker Ollie Palmer video called Rob McElhenney from his hospital bedside.

Just two-weeks-ago, Archie James White, from Wrexham, was diagnosed with Myeloid Sarcoma, a rare blood cancer requiring intense chemotherapy and eventually a bone marrow transplant. 

The 12-year-old Red Dragons fan has gone from being an active football player to being completely bed-bound which has been a shock for the whole family who are gradually adjusting to their new reality. 

Mum Sarah Jane Kyffin said: "The diagnosis process was traumatising. His joints are affected, he's unable to walk and he's in excruciating pain with the swelling.


Ollie Palmer with super-fan Archie WhiteOllie Palmer with super-fan Archie White (Image: Sarah Jane Kyffin)

"Our whole hearts have been shattered but Archie's bravery throughout all of this has really kept us strong - he's my absolute idol."

Archie has followed Wrexham AFC his whole life and is a dedicated season ticket holder coming from a long-line of fans in the family, including dad James.

A couple of days before the start of his chemotherapy, players sent messages of support to the family, including striker Ollie Palmer who invited Archie to a training session to meet the lads.

Following a tough day of chemo, Ollie showed up to the ward in Alder Hey this week where Archie is receiving treatment to surprise him. His family admit to being utterly speechless at his kind yet unexpected gesture.

(Image: Sarah Jane Kyffin)

"He stayed with us for hours", Sarah said. We chatted about Wrexham, family life and I mentioned how chuffed we were that Rob had sent Alfie a private message. He replied and said 'Shall we facetime him?' and we fell to the floor laughing!"

Rob answered his phone on set and immediately put the biggest smile on young Archie's face. He then said he would call back after work - and he did, twice. Archie also played FIFA on the PS5 with Ollie, thrashing him 4-0!

"It was fate that Ollie came because of the bad day Archie was having! Archie is happy, polite, outgoing cheeky lad and he truly deserved that moment!

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"Ollie also got his phone out and ordered Archie pieces of his own brand wxm clothing, he was so generous. I have so much respect for him and Archie can't wait to get his signed shirt up in his room. His kindness was everything."

Sarah describes the experience as a core memory for her son who is fighting an unimaginable and difficult battle with the support from his family.

Archie will continue cheering Wrexham AFC on in Alder Hey and will hopefully soon return to the Stok Cae Ras to see his new pals on the pitch.