Wakefield Trinity Head Coach’s Family ‘Stick Together’ Amid Grandson’s Leukaemia Diagnosis
The rugby league community is rallying around Wakefield Trinity head coach Daryl Powell and his family after his grandson Clarke was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in January. According to the BBC, Powell’s family has been through a "really difficult and emotional time" since Clarke’s diagnosis.
In an interview with BBC Radio Leeds, Powell opened up about the challenges his family has faced. "It has been a really difficult and emotional time for my family, especially for my daughter Kegan and her husband Eamonn," he said. "It’s very difficult for families when something like this happens, particularly when it is someone so young – he was just before his first birthday when he went into hospital."
Clarke has been undergoing treatment for six months at Leeds General Infirmary (LGI) and the oncology ward. Powell praised the medical staff, saying they have been "unbelievable in treating Clarke." He added that his family has "done what families do and stuck together and supported one another."
The BBC reports that Wakefield Trinity is raising money for Candlelighters Trust, an external organisation that provides practical and emotional support to children with cancer in Yorkshire. The club’s home game against Leigh on Sunday will be broadcast live on BBC2, and fans are encouraged to attend and show their support.
Powell expressed his hopes for Clarke’s future, saying, "It’s the start of a journey and we’re hopeful that he’s going to be well. He’s happy and smiling at the moment whilst still going through a very difficult time." He also praised Clarke’s bravery, saying, "He’s been very brave and handled it so, so well. We’re hoping he doesn’t remember anything of it."
The rugby league community is coming together to support Powell and his family during this challenging time. As the BBC notes, Sunday’s game against Leigh will be a chance for fans to show their support for Clarke and the Powell family. The match will kick off at 14:30 BST and will be broadcast live on BBC2.
In related news, Candlelighters Trust has been working tirelessly to provide support to children with cancer in Yorkshire. The organisation’s work is crucial in helping families navigate the challenges of childhood cancer. As reported by the BBC, Wakefield Trinity’s efforts to raise money for Candlelighters Trust are a testament to the club’s commitment to supporting the local community.
The story of Clarke’s diagnosis and treatment has resonated with the rugby league community, and fans are rallying around the Powell family. As BBC Sport continues to follow the developments in Clarke’s journey, one thing is clear – the rugby league community is behind him and his family every step of the way.
The BBC will continue to provide updates on Clarke’s progress and the efforts of Wakefield Trinity to support him and his family.
