Bundesliga
Fundraising campaign launched for cancer-fighting Union 'keeper
Goalkeeper Berkin Arslanogullari, who represented Union Berlin's youth teams, is currently fighting bone cancer and has his leg amputated in a life-saving measure.
As a small boy, Berkin dreamed of one day playing in front of Union fans at the Alte Försterei. He worked his way through the club's youth teams and was able to train with the professionals for the first time last season. A highlight of his career so far was making it onto the pitch in a first-team friendly last season — a moment that will be remembered forever.
Now, though, Berkin and his family are now facing a new, daunting challenge, which has already seen the 19-year-old undergo intense chemotherapy. Due to the care and support Berkin requires, his parents are no longer able to go to work.
The family's current home is not suitable for a disabled person, though. A new apartment or extensive renovation measures, on top of the upcoming rehabilitation, are urgently needed but come at enormous costs.
Which is where football has stepped in. To help alleviate the financial burden, and give Berkin the best possible chance of a brighter future, a fundraising campaign has been launched.
Union Berlin and the “UNION VEREINT. Shoulder to Shoulder” foundation are participating in the campaign and are asking Unioners to support the family.