On Monday, 23 February, Everton will welcome Manchester United to the Hill Dickinson Stadium for a big Premier League match in the race for European football.
While the match is certainly one of significance on the pitch, it is also one of huge importance off it as the stadium will be decked out in rainbow colours for an hour in the build-up to kick off for a very important cause.
Why rainbow colours will feature at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night
The reason for the rainbow theme on Monday night is due to an eight-month-old baby from North Wales who is battling an incredibly rare health condition.
Rupert Smith, who comes from a family of lifelong Everton fans, was diagnosed with a condition called Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood just last month. The disease means that Rupert faces a life of fighting against paralysis and seizures.
To aid his battle, Everton have agreed to light the stadium up in rainbow colours between 6pm and 7pm in honour of Rupert's Rainbow, the name of the charity created by the child's family to raise awareness for the condition.
In addition to the rainbow glow, fans are also being encouraged to conduct a minute's applause in the seventh minute for Rupert.
Please share 💙
— Rupert’s Rainbow 🌈 (@rupertsrainbow) February 22, 2026
Going to the @everton game tomorrow night?
Please could you spare just one minute to clap for Rupert on the 7th minute 👏🌈
That simple gesture will show Rupert, and others living with AHC, that despite their rare, life-threatening condition, they aren’t alone.… pic.twitter.com/ip4NDhkwve
Father explains the significance of Everton's support
Rupert's father, David, has spoken to the Liverpool Echo this week about how much the family appreciate the support of Everton in their son's battle. He said:
“It means more than we can put into words. To see a club like Everton light up the stadium in rainbow colours is amazing. Football has the power to unite people, and in that moment, Rupert isn’t just a baby with a rare condition; he’s part of something bigger.
“Our family are lifelong Everton supporters. To now see the club will be lighting up the stadium in rainbow colours for Rupert will be incredibly emotional. Everton is known as a family club, and right now we are a family who needs support.”
FGG says: Help support the cause
Everton's actions on Monday night could end up having a huge impact on the future of this child, so they deserve all the praise that will come their way. If you want to learn more about Rupert and his condition, read his full story and consider donating.