Supporters from Sunderland and Middlesbrough will walk between the two clubs' stadiums this weekend in a fundraising effort.
Last year Christopher Wood, a lifelong Middlesbrough FC fan and season ticket holder for over 20 years suffered his second brain haemorrhage causing a major stroke leaving him hospitalised for nearly three months.
He is now back home with his family, but has complete weakness to the whole right side of his body. Chris needs specialist neurological rehabilitation, which cannot be provided by the NHS.
Chris has an amazing family, his wife Jenny and son Max, alongside a fantastic bunch of friends, most of whom he’s known over 20 years. His friends have already raised nearly £3,000 to pay for his initial rehabilitation.
To help raise further funds required to provide Chris with this essential support for as long as possible, over 50 of his family and friends will be walking from Sunderland's Stadium of Light to Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium in time for the match between Middlesbrough and Sunderland on 4th February setting off from the SOL at 7pm on the Saturday evening.
Our SAFC Billingham & District Branch will be participating in the fundraising walk. The walking party will comprise of fans from both of these north-east fanbases in a common cause to support Chris and his family in their time of need.
If you wish to donate, click here.