It’s a story that touches the heart of anyone who hears it and it’s one that Morpeth Junior Rugby League Club wants to be a part of.
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Eight-year-old Mollyjane Boyson was born with Carnitine-Acylcarnitine Translocase Deficiency (CACT), a rare and deadly genetic illness that means her body can't break down fats.
At just three years old, she became the oldest known survivor of the disease worldwide. The nature of the little-known condition means the family don’t know how long they will have with Mollyjane.
Her mum Jessica Rothwell described her brave young fighter as “inspirational” with “the kindest heart”.
Mollyjane’s story has moved many. Ms Rothwell said they had received amazing community support, which had helped Mollyjane get to where she is now.
One person who was instantly touched by Mollyjane’s plight was Morpeth Junior Rugby League committee member Craig Green.
He connected with Ms Rothwell through his work in 2015 and they quickly formed a friendship.
“He’s just stayed on board,” Ms Rothwell said. “He’s been so kind.”
Mr Green recently decided he wanted to do something nice for Mollyjane.
He has organised for her to attend a Morpeth Junior Rugby League home game, where she will be presented with club memorabilia, run a junior team onto the field and give the game ball to the referee.
The club will also set up a special area for Mollyjane and take her picture with the team.
Mr Green said he wanted to organise a really nice day for Mollyjane.
“Rugby league is tough but not as tough as her day to day fight to live,” Mr Green said.
Mr Green said he wanted to raise awareness about CACT and Mollyjane’s story by holding the event but only had one real objective in mind to achieve on the day.
Rugby league is tough but not as tough as her day to day fight to live.
- Morpeth Junior Rugby League's Craig Green
“The main aim is just to put a smile on her face,” he said.
Ms Rothwell said she also wanted to raise awareness about metabolic conditions, which she believes do not receive enough funding.
Ms Rothwell said she hadn’t told Mollyjane yet about the day, but that she will be “so excited” when she finds out.
Ms Rothwell’s husband Joe said the initiative was unexpected but was very touched that people who don’t know Mollyjane want to do something so nice for her.
- If games are called off on Saturday due to rain, the day for Mollyjane will be moved to next Saturday, weather permitting.