JODI O’Connor will dive right into her ninth Rottnest Channel Swim tomorrow, all for the little man in her life – her grandson, Ezekiel.
She was inspired to compete again this year by the mission of fundraising for Rockingham General Hospital, after many stints in hospital with her 19-month-old grandson.
A seasoned swimmer, Jodi has already completed the solo swim and duo crossings four times each.
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READ NOW“Ezekiel has been in and out of hospital over the past year after failing to thrive, severe reflux, colitis, gastric nasal tube and severe allergies,” she said.
“It has been a really difficult time for our family and we couldn’t have gotten through without the incredible staff at RGH who are always phoning, emailing and checking in on Ezekiel – nothing has ever been too much for them to handle.
“I hope I am able to give back to them and other families that are going through a tough time.”
Paediatric ward nurse unit manager Vicki Filby said the ward was grateful to be at the receiving end of Jodi’s donation.
“We are looking to put the funds raised by Jodi towards purchasing equipment for our new outdoor play area as the new space has been so well received,” she said.
“We would like to add a toadstool and mushroom table and chair set, ride-on toys, tenpin bowling set and maybe even a bubble machine!”
To make a donation visit https://uk.gofundme.com/splash-for-kids