From ICU to Allianz Parque, Palmeiras fan beats tumour and lives his dream | OneFootball

A 12-year-old Palmeiras supporter has gone from a prolonged spell in intensive care to fulfilling a dream at Allianz Parque during the win over Athletico Paranaense last Sunday.

According to Globo.com, Rafael José Logerfo de Almeida first showed symptoms in August 2024, with the diagnosis confirmed on 28 December after an urgent scan at Santa Casa, before transfer to Marília for treatment.

He was diagnosed with grade 4 medulloblastoma, had eight brain surgeries and developed bacterial meningitis after tumour removal. After 30 radiotherapy sessions and chemotherapy, he left chemo a month ago. An MRI on Monday 20 was encouraging and follow-up continues.

Rafael spent 38 days in ICU and initially struggled with simple tasks. Even then he leaned on football, asking his mother to check Palmeiras line-ups and results when he could not type.

In September 2025 the Babu’z supporters’ group surprised him with a trip to see River Plate and a stadium tour. After medical clearance, he later returned to Allianz Parque with his godfather.

The standout moment came last weekend as he entered with the team before Athletico Paranaense. Goalkeeper Carlos Miguel pushed his wheelchair to the centre for the anthem and Marcelo Lomba gifted him a glove.

Grateful and hopeful, Rafael said he now dreams of a shirt from Flaco López and more time with the players, also naming Vitor Roque among his favourites.

Source: Globo.com