This Saturday's home game against Grimsby Town will see Gillingham welcome a very special little boy to Priestfield - 7-year-old Reggie Aslin courtesy of The Gillingham FC Supporters' Club.
Reggie, a Grimsby Town supporter, has been battling against the odds since birth, but despite being born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome he has set himself a target of visiting all 92 Football League stadiums. To help him with his quest, The Gillingham FC Supporters' Club has arranged with the staff at Gillingham Football Club to welcome Reggie, plus Mum Michelle and Dad Lee to wheelchair accessible seats in the away section for this Saturday's game.
Having Hypoplastic left heart syndrome means that Reggie only has half a heart due to complications with his blood flow. After numerous surgeries, Reggie then underwent a further operation, which was to help to prolong his life as much as possible, but tragically, Reggie suffered multiple strokes on both sides and on the back of his brain, leaving his family unsure if he would see, walk or even talk again.
However, not wanting to give in, Reggie has been proving everyone wrong. With his beloved Grimsby Town spurring him on, the little fighter is becoming his old self bit by bit, which has come as a huge relief to his parents.
Further details and photographs about Reggie's story can be viewed via the Grimsby Telegraph here and also here.
The Gillingham FC Supporters' Club and Gillingham Football Club hope that Reggie and his family enjoy their day at Priestfield.
We are delighted that Reggie had a great day at Priestfield yesterday. He cheered a Grimsby goal, met Tommy T as well as lots of friendly Gillingham supporters.
We hope Reggie continues to progress in leaps and bounds. One very special little boy 💙
Photos courtesy of Kent Pro Images - Colin Nash