The past few days will have been brutal for Tom Evans and his partner Kate after their 23-month-old boy Alfie died.
They put up a tremendous battle to get their child to Italy so that he could continue to be kept on life support after UK judges ruled it was in the boy's best interests to be taken off the machines.
Well, after putting up such a fight, dad Tom has been awarded by Everton Football Club for his bravery in tackling such a difficult issue.
The 21-year-old was brought on stage at the Liverpool Philiharmonic Hall by club chairman Bill Kenwright during Everton's end of season dinner known as The Dixies.
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He was presented with the club's Blueblood Award because he embodies 'the Evertonian spirit'.
Upon accepting the incredible honour, Tom said: "I just want to thank Bill from the moment I had the phone call with him. He said, 'Anything you need, anything', and I said, 'I just want Alfie's name to be known around Liverpool'.
"Alfie really wanted to go to a game and as soon as we went to a game, he was screaming. I don't think there was a happier person than Alfie to be part of Everton, Alfie wore the badge with pride through his situation.
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"I can't thank the lads enough as well, I felt there was a connection with Tom [Davies]. Alfie will always be a part of Everton.
"My dream as a child was to play for Everton. I remember watching Rooney score that goal against Arsenal in my brother's bedroom and I wanted to follow in those footsteps.
"Then when we had Alfie I wanted the same for him. I wear the badge with pride no matter the situation and Alfie wore his no matter his situation.
"I couldn't be more proud to support this club because of the support I've received and I'm just glad Alfie got to wear the kit and was part of Everton."
Chairman Bill Kenwright added: "Tom has just whispered in my ear, 'He would be proud, wouldn't he?' Well Tom, every second he was proud of you."
According to the Mirror, Alfie's Army, the group set up to keep supporters informed about the boy's progress, received a 'massive donation' from Mr Kenwright.
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The money pushed their fundraiser into the £10,000 mark and went towards paying for a High Court challenge against the judges decision to remove Alfie's life support.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Alfie Evans, News, Inspirational, UK