'Brian embodies everything the Chelsea Foundation seeks to promote'

Brian Geraty is someone who has a very special place at the heart of the Chelsea Foundation.

He joined the Chelsea Foundation's Cancer Rehabilitation Programme last year, having had cancer diagnosed in his kidneys and lungs.

Brian completed the 12-week programme and has progressed to being a regular attendee at the Foundation's Exercise & Mobility and Adapted Sports sessions including walking football.

As part of the Premier League's More than a game celebration, Brian has been rewarded for his hard work, dedication and support for other participants by being named as Chelsea's Premier League Community Captain.

"It's amazing that this much effort has been put into something for me," he told the Chelsea website. "I don't think I do anything special. I'm going to keep battling cancer. I don't think that anyone should just lie down and let it beat you.

"My mental strength has surprised me. I've always loved sport and it gives you motivation. Everyone has to have a purpose. I've got to show people that you can keep going and be happy. People say I am an inspiration, I'm not so sure if I am but I'll keep going."

Geraty received the Community Captain armband and trophy from former Chelsea goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini at a surprise presentation at a cancer rehabilitation session at Chelsea Sports Centre.

"It's a recognition of what the Foundation does," Brian said. "They've helped me so much. I really cannot sing the praises enough of the whole Chelsea support network.

"I always look forward to seeing the Chelsea Foundation staff and other participants. Sometimes you just need to talk to someone and have a chat. Once you take your first step, it's a pathway to something else. I found this out first hand having moved on to walking football.

"Thank you Chelsea Foundation for all you do!"

As well as the surprise presentation, Brian was also invited to events at the first-team training ground and at Stamford Bridge ahead of the Premier League match against West Ham United on Monday evening.

"Brian embodies everything the Chelsea Foundation seeks to promote," said Sam Gaskin-Kemp, Chelsea Foundation's head of education and community. "He constantly goes the extra mile to be a friendly face to his fellow participants.

"Brian's tremendous dedication to our wider work is a brilliant example and it has been so gratifying to see his journey with us. There is nobody more deserving of the award."

Chelsea Foundation's Cancer Rehabilitation Programme is part of Bridging the Blues, which is supported by the Premier League and Professional Footballers' Association Community Fund, administered through the Premier League Charitable Fund, and delivers community-based group exercise sessions for those with long-term health conditions.

About More than a game

More than a game highlights the positive impact of Premier League investment into communities and all levels of football.

The League is investing £1.6billion into wider football, the grassroots game and communities between 2022 and 2025.

This includes funding for community projects run by 164 professional and non-league clubs, supporting people of all ages who need it most, as well as providing much-needed funding to non-league, grassroots and women’s clubs to enhance stadium facilities for players and fans.