West Coast Eagles to wear Telethon shirt ahead of Sunday clash designed by cancer survivor Matilda Pitt

The West Coast Eagles will take to Optus Stadium in a brighter, bolder look on Sunday, wearing a special Telethon training shirt designed by a 15-year-old cancer survivor.

The custom top, featuring vibrant flowers, butterflies, rainbows and dragonflies, will be worn by the team ahead of its Impact Round clash in a powerful show of support for Telethon families.

Matilda Pitt was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive spinal cancer, malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour, at just 12 years old.

Since then, she has endured countless hours of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, rehabilitation and ongoing specialist care after being told she may never walk again.

Despite her battle, she channelled her resilience into creating the colourful design.

“On the front, it’s me saying, ‘yes, chemo is done’. There are bright colours to show hope and happiness,” Matilda told the players on Tuesday.

“On the back, you’ll see people with disabilities . . . there’s also a sneaky Dachshund support dog, just like my dog Sebastian.”

After spending 18 months living between Perth Children’s Hospital and Crawford Lodge, Matilda and her family have recently returned to their South West home as they work to rebuild a sense of normality.

Her mum, Tash Pitt, said cancer had turned the family’s world upside down more than once.

“I never imagined that one day our family would be one of those families needing support,” she said.

“In 2020, our lives were changed when our youngest daughter Danica was diagnosed with brain cancer.

“Just as life was starting to feel more normal, we heard the words no parents want to hear a second time. Matilda, our eldest girl, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive spinal cancer called malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour.

“While navigating Matilda’s journey . . . we discovered our middle girl Georgia also has a low-grade brain tumour.”

Ms Pitt said Telethon had been a lifeline throughout their journey.

“Through our own journey, I’ve seen the first-hand incredible impact of telethon beneficiaries,” she said.

“These organisations provide support, therapy, and moments of joy for children and families when they need it the most.”

She hopes fans will see Matilda’s spirit reflected in the Eagles’ special shirt on Sunday.

“Her artwork represents hope, courage, and resilience, reflecting not only her own journey, but the journey of so many telethon families,” Ms Pitt said.

West Coast captain Liam Duggan said the team was honoured to wear Matilda’s design after hearing her family’s story.

“We’re super proud to be wearing this and be a part of Telethon as a footy club so thank you,” he said.

Matilda’s response was short and sweet.

“Go Eagles,” she said.