Jack Veen has been in and out of hospital since he was born but the 13-year-old is now getting on his bike to help other sick kids.
The teenager from South Penrith will ride 200 kilometres in September as part of the Starlight Tour de Kids Challenge.
Living with the rare condition Hypopituitarism, which will have to be managed with medication and treatment for the rest of his life, Jack wanted to give back to the Starlight Children’s Foundation that helped him.
“I have gone to the Starlight room in hospital when I start feeling better and I want sick kids to have the same thing as it will make them feel happier,” Jack said.
“I like bike riding so will do a bit every day or do a lot on the weekend… I’m just hoping it doesn’t rain.”
Jack’s mother, Lisa Gale said she is proud of her son who took the initiative to take part in the fundraiser.
“It is good to see him acknowledging and wanting to help others since he has his own health problems,” Ms Gale said.
“He always wants to helps and we try to lead as much of a normal life as possible despite his conditions.”
To donate, visit https://tourdekids.org.au/jack-veen.
Emily Feszczuk
A graduate of Western Sydney University, Emily covers Local, State and Federal politics for the Weekender, as well as crime and general news.