Dutch Hammers surprise terminally ill fan

Dozens of Dutch West Ham fans gathered in a café in Enkhuizen on Saturday. They were there not only to watch the West Ham game against Everton, but more importantly to surprise a 54-year-old Hammers fan called Kees from Enkhuizen. Kees has been diagnosed with inoperable terminal kidney cancer. The cafe was decked out with West Ham banners and football shirts by his friends as a surprise.

“We really treat each other like brothers,” Mark Malinka told the Dutch media just before Kees arrived for the surprise.

“He is always there for everyone, organizes a lot for us and wants the best for everyone. Moreover, he regularly takes trips to the West Ham’s ground. He is actually the one who brought us all together.”

The group of friends surprised him with greeting him with a rendition of the song I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles.

“I am completely speechless, this really does me good,” Kees said, later. “This also reflects the closeness of the West Ham family. Every day that you feel good, is a reason for a party,” said Kees. “I am not giving up, I am fighting on.”

Claret and Hugh say: A heart warming story from our  extended West Ham family in Holland which proves the old saying, somethings are more important that football! Good luck Kees!