An inspirational Alder Hey nurse was left stunned after being surprised at work by Everton captain Seamus Coleman as part of a special Mother’s Day treat.
Julia Roberts, 53, believed she was attending a routine meeting with hospital colleagues when she walked into the room to discover the Blues’ skipper waiting with flowers.
Coleman also delivered the news to a visibly shocked Julia that, courtesy of Hill Dickinson, she and three guests had been gifted a VIP experience at Everton’s Premier League home match against Burnley.
A Journey of Courage and Recovery
Tony McArdle
Two years ago, Julia almost lost her life after falling ill with a serious bowel condition.
After a major operation, she spent three months in the hospital and a longer period recovering at home.
The passionate Evertonian now lives with a stoma bag but has refused to let it alter her life, returning to her role at Alder Hey, where she has helped care for children for more than three decades.
Julia was nominated for the surprise by her daughter Beth in acknowledgement of her bravery.
Reflecting on the moment, Julia said:
“I was in absolute shock, it was crazy.
“Walking in and seeing Seamus, such a great ambassador for the Club, and then realising it was for me, I couldn’t believe it.
“I don’t like praise or people talking about me, I hate it, to be fair.
“But hearing that it was my daughter who set it all up for me, and hearing her and Seamus say the lovely things they did, it honestly means the world.”
Her daughter Beth, who set up the surprise, added:
“Mum has been through so much, she was really poorly, but she’s still everything for everyone and never puts herself first, ever.
“Everyone I’ve ever spoken to about my mum loves her, and I think that’s something to be proud of.
“She deserves everything and she loves Everton.
“I think me and my brother Tom spent our entire childhoods going to the games and watching Everton , every day had something Everton in it.
“Seeing her face and how surprised she was, it was amazing.”
A Memorable Matchday at Hill Dickinson Stadium
The VIP experience lived up to the billing under the lights at Everton’s waterfront home.
Beyond dining in one of Hill Dickinson Stadium’s Premium restaurants, Julia met Everton heroes Graham Stuart and Ian Snodin, and chatted with James Tarkowski and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall just hours before both players scored to secure a 2-0 win.
Julia said:
“My own mum was the biggest Blue and I’ve sort of walked in her footsteps to be fair, and all my family are Evertonians too.
“To meet everyone we did, to have that experience, and to see us win, it’s something I’ll never forget.”
Seamus Coleman shared his thoughts on delivering the surprise:
“You could see after the tough years she’s had what Everton means to her.
“To get the opportunity to go to a game, you could see it meant the world.
“I was speaking to some of her colleagues and they all speak so highly of her and how much she loves her job, so that says a lot about her as well.
“I’m happy to play my part.
“It was very special for me as well to see how much it all meant to her.”
Andrew Craggs, head of health at Hill Dickinson, noted:
“Despite being a lifelong Everton fan and going to many of last season’s games at Goodison, Julia hadn’t yet had the opportunity to attend a match at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
“Beth and her family told us how much she would love to experience a game at the Club’s new home, and we’re pleased she helped bring the team three points.
“Her story is one of courage, selflessness and quiet heroism, making a difference to so many lives in the way only the NHS can.
“It was our pleasure to bring her a special early Mother’s Day treat.”
As part of the package, Julia and a guest will also be invited to watch the Men’s Senior team train at an exclusive event later in the season.
