Since 1969, I, Malcolm, have been an avid supporter of Chesterfield FC. It all started the first time I went to a Saltergate match. I was immediately enthralled and began routinely going to home games as well as occasionally making the trip to away games, like those at Sheffield United and Notts County.
I still clearly recall the years that Arthur Cox, who was very well-liked at the time, managed us. My favorite memory is from 1981, the year Chesterfield FC defeated Rangers to win the Anglo Scottish Cup. When we played Liverpool in the 1992–1993 season, it was another game to remember. We were up 4-1, but Liverpool pulled off an incredible comeback to tie the game at4-4 before we lost at
Saltergate. I had the amazing chance to watch Chesterfield FC play twice at Wembley—against Bury and then against Cambridge.
However, I was forced to stop going to live matches as my vision grew worse and I eventually went blind. I had hearing at birth, but when I was two years old, I got tuberculosis. My enthusiasm for the team did not fade even after I became Deafblind; I kept up with the scores and outcomes.
My life took a positive turn after thirty years when I was helped by Deafinitely Supportive Ltd. Reviving the excitement of going to live matches has been made possible in large part by my personal assistant, John Litherland. John keeps me updated about what’s happening on the field through Deafblind communication, which helps me to feel involved in the game again. In addition, I can sense the cheers of my teammates and can predict when we will score before John does!
I now own a season ticket to Chesterfield FC’s new stadium, courtesy of John and Deafinitely Supportive Ltd. My passion for watching live football has been reignited by this support, and I am excited for the upcoming League Two season.
I am immensely grateful to my PA, John, for his assistance and the incredible encouragement of the whole team at Deafinitely Supportive and for making it possible for me to experience the thrill of the matches once again.
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