Footballers launch appeal to raise £100,000 for seriously ill goalkeeper George Howard

The Kentish Football Family have been asked to support former Charlton Athletic, Bromley and Gillingham goalkeeper George Howard, 20, who was involved in a serious car accident whilst on holiday in South Africa.

It is sad to report that the goalkeeper is currently in intensive care in a coma on life support fighting for his life.

An appeal to raise £100,000 has been set up by close friends Martin Di Fede, 29 and Aaron Burrett, 29, who play for Southern Counties East Football League side Rochester United.

Di Fede said: “Due to unforeseen circumstances the insurance company are refusing to pay the heavily rising costs.

“Each day George is fighting it is costing his family close to £15,000 per day.

“We’re trying to raise as much money as possible to try and help George, his parents and Mark and Marian at this terrible time to help George get the treatment he needs to survive.

“For those who don’t know George he is a talented, driven, focused and enthusiastic young man who with his infectious personality makes people instantly warm to him.

“For those who do know George know that no words can describe what a great friend he is to so many.

“Any help you can give will be deeply appreciated.”

Rainham-based Howard began his career at Charlton Athletic before signing for Conference South Bromley, where he played a big part in the London Senior Cup coming to Hayes Lane in May 2013, as understudy to Joe Welch.

He sealed a move to Gillingham last summer, but was released by the League One club this month, along with Adam Birchall, 29, who has since signed for Bromley last Wednesday.

Players and supporters of his three former clubs – Howard also played for Cray Wanderers and Sevenoaks Town as a teenager - as well as the Kentish Football Community who always pull together during times like these - have been asked to support George Howard and his family and you can do so by visiting this website: www.gofundme.com/9ktsy0