Richmond and St Kilda will honour the recent passing of Madeleine Riewoldt, with the upcoming Round 16 match between the clubs dubbed ‘Maddie’s Match’.

Madeleine’s brother, Saints’ captain Nick Riewoldt, along with Tigers’ spearhead Jack Riewoldt (Madeleine’s cousin), helped launch the concept today at Etihad Stadium.

Maddie’s Match is the first major fundraiser of ‘Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision’, which has been established to help adolescents and young adults suffering from Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes through research and providing support into prevention and treatments, with an aim to find a cure.

For the Round 16 match between Richmond and St Kilda on Sunday, July 19, $5 from every ticket purchased will to go towards Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision.

Both clubs will wear guernseys emblazoned with the Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision logo, and #fightlikemaddie.

Madeleine Riewoldt suffered from a Bone Marrow Failure Syndrome called Aplastic Anemia, which ultimately claimed her life at the age of 26.

Over a five year battle with the illness, Maddie endured countless blood transfusions, intrusive medical procedures, two bone marrow transplants and seven months in hospital, with 227 days spent in ICU; the longest stay of any patient in ICU at Royal Melbourne Hospital since its inception.

Richmond, St Kilda and the AFL are calling on all footy fans to support Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision, attend the match and wear purple – Maddie’s favourite colour.

To donate to Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision, visit mrv.org.au or SMS ‘Maddie’ to 0437 371 371.