Eight-year old Justin, a huge Kangaroos’ supporter, was at Aegis Park recently, seeking a much needed break with his family facing the most challenging of circumstances.
With his not even three-week old baby sister Sinem in intensive care at the Royal Children’s Hospital, Justin took the opportunity to visit Aegis Park and meet some of his heroes. Accompanied by his parents Victoria Yunupingu and Shane Garrawurra from Elcho Island, off the coast of Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, it was the first time in a long time Justin was able to take his mind off things and be happy..
“Meeting Justin and his parents was heartbreaking but inspiring,” Wells told NMFC.com.au.
“You feel helpless seeing what they’re going through and not being able to do anything.
“It’s only a very small thing to meet with them and show them around the club, but to be able to put a smile on Justin’s face even for a short time… it’s definitely a good thing,” Wells added.
Leila Gurruwiwi, cousin of the Yunupingu family, believes the visit was equally inspiring for young Justin.
“Justin was overjoyed to meet his favourite player Daniel Wells and have a look through the club,” Gurruwiwi said.
“For however long they were at the club, it kept Justin, Victoria and Shane’s minds off things happening back at the hospital.
The family was also thrilled to meet Majak Daw.
“He (Justin) was also rapt to receive his very own goodie bag of Kangaroos’ gear which he proudly paraded around. Even when boarding the plane back to Darwin he had his North Melbourne backpack on.
“As soon as they left they rang everyone. They rang all our family and friends to tell them about the trip to the club, it was nice to see them so excited.”
Father to a four-year old girl Laudate, Wells understands the importance of the Royal Children’s Hospital.
“Laudate is my pride and joy and I know if she was ever unwell I would want to be confident she was receiving the highest level of care, and we know we’d get that at the Royal Children’s,” he added.
Over half of North’s playing list will spend a large part of their day off on Good Friday visiting some extraordinary kids who are spending Easter in hospital.
“We are urging all our members to dig deep and help in whatever way they can by donating as much or as little as possible.
“There are countless families just like the Yunupingu’s who need your support.”
To donate to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal please visit http://www.rch.org.au
