Jon started his NRL career at the Cronulla Sharks where he played from 2009-2011. In 2011 he came back to the Parramatta Eels to join his brother Tim, who the next year would become captain of the team.
However, the
focus of this story is not on Jon's short lived NRL career, but simply on the
tremendous individual that he was.
Jon was first
diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2009. His battle with this insidious
disease lasted 3 and a half years.
Following his diagnosis in 2009, Jon managed to fight his way back to
full fitness and even managed to play another 12 games for Cronulla.
However, he had another relapse in 2011 while he was playing for the Wenty Magpies, finally losing his battle in January last year.
Everyone who
met Jon (including myself on a number of occasions) was absolutely inspired by
his tremendous joy for life and his courage as he continued to fight with
dignity and grace. He tackled his
diagnosis with such a positive attitude and filled people with such joy, no
matter his condition.
He was a true
gentleman and a role model for our game and the NRL is a much sadder place
without his fabulous smile.
So wherever you are today, spare a thought for a gentleman that we have lost and for his family. Jon was taken far too soon.
Love,
@LadiesWhoLeague
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