Six-year-old Parker Jeffery from Violet Town, is a passionate Tigers supporter whose favourite player is Dustin Martin. This Saturday afternoon, he will join the team as it runs out on the hallowed MCG turf.  

In December 2016 Parker’s father, Steven Jeffery, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia as well as an uncommon gene mutation that increases the severity of what is an already aggressive form of leukaemia.

Steven has undergone a strict regime of chemotherapy based in Melbourne.

Due to the extensive treatment Steven is receiving in Melbourne, family visits are restricted to weekends or every second weekend. This has been especially difficult on wife and mother Bree, and two children – Parker and sister Elliette, age 7. 

Steven, Bree and the family visited Punt Road Oval to watch a closed training session before the Round 2 Richmond against Collingwood game.

Parker and his sister Elliette were able to run water for the team during training which they loved.

Steven and Bree were able to look on while Parker and Elliette offered water and chatted with players in between training drills. 

The family’s visit to Punt Road to meet players and coaches provided some fond memories of being in Melbourne - as opposed to hospitals and medical facilities. Steven will undergo a bone marrow (stem cell) transplant in May, which the family hopes will work towards curing him. This transplant requires a strict isolation period post operation.

Photos of Parker and his family at Punt Road will go into Steven's isolation unit and provide life-long memories for all involved.