We have, sadly, lost another fan in the last week.
Rupert Prokoviev was a member of the famous musical dynasty but an 'ordinary' fan of the club
He was, however, an extraordinary individual who defied the odds to live to 31 with a rare condition whose average life expectancy is a mere 26.
I hope that the link I have included with this post works as it will take you to a video of the interview he and his brother, Sergei, gave on Classic FM as recently as October last year.
If you can view it then you will see and hear Rupert in his own words talk about dealing with the hand life deals you
It will also put a face to a name and help people to recognise him
I first met Rupert around 2010 when I started work as an advocate with Greenwich Association of Disabled People (GAD), based then and now at Christchurch in Trafalgar Road
Rupert was, at the time, a Trustee of GAD and someone who was a living example of what is possible despite - because? - of the limitations imposed by a life-limiting, genetic disability
He went up further in my estimation when I realised that I recognised him from seeing him at The Valley
Rupert was a campaigner not only for his own specific and rare condition but for increased rights and resources for disabled people, generally.
He will be sorely missed by all those he came into contact with, including, I'm sure those who knew him as a fellow Red.
I am sure that the society discussed in the Classic FM interview would be pleased to receive donations in his name.
http://www.classicfm.com/radio/charity/a-t-society/#Dg3W2oAUaZ2JqD2M.97 
Comments
RIP Rupert.
I did some work with GAD but didn't Rupert but they do some great work.
Sad news.
Was presented with a school music award by his father, Oleg, back in 1979.
I believe his brother also died early, but with lukemia.
RIP
RIP Rupert
RIP Rupert.
A brave, brave man.
RIP
RIP.......Rupert......RIP.
Yes indeed, an excerpt from Romeo and Juliet is the music played at Sunderland: