John Hunter Children’s Hospital patient Nurak Charley was a special visitor at Newcastle Jets training on Monday morning.
John Hunter Children-s Hospital patient Nurak Charley was a special visitor at Newcastle Jets training at Ray Watt Oval on Monday morning.
Hailing from the pacific island nation of Vanuatu, Nurak Charley, or just ‘Charley- for short, has been in Newcastle since February receiving treatment at the John Hunter Children-s Hospital for his bilateral talipes (club feet).
Charley has endured numerous operations and rehabilitation to straighten his feet, and as a reward for this great effort he was a VIP guest at Jets training on Monday morning.
Charley-s trip to Australia and his medical treatment was made possible by Rotary Oceania Medial Aid for Children (ROMAC).
Brian Coffey, ROMAC-s local representative said Charley is a big football fan and enjoyed the opportunity to watch the Jets put through their paces.
‘Football is a popular sport in Vanuatu and Charley just loves the game. It-s a dream experience for him to watch elite players like the Jets train and come an talk with him,” Coffey said.
Jets attacking midfielder Mitch Cooper, who was also born in Vanuatu, entertained Charley and demonstrated football skills and tricks.
“It was great spending time with Charley and his Mum today,” Cooper said.
“The treatment he has received at the John Hunter Children-s Hospital is amazing, and the difference to Charley-s life in the long run will be incredible”
Charley and his Mum will return to Vanuatu at the end of September and it is hoped that Charley will be walking unassisted in a few months time.
