I am a nurse at Freo hospital and also a keen kiter/surfer.

One of our nursing colleagues experienced a tradgedy with her son, Jason Mclean in December 2002. Jason is 19 years old. On 22nd December, Jason had a tragic accident where he severed his spinal cord after swimming in the ocean at Scarborough. His subsequent injuries are such that Jason experiences no movement below his shoulders. His condition is similar to that of the renowned actor Christopher Reeve. Jason is not entitled to any compensation payment.

Following an arduous 8 months in hospital where Jason was exposed to physiotherapy and other such treatments he returned to his family home. Fortunately his family are very supportive and predicably his mother, father and sister are Jason’s primary carers. Jason requires 24-hour physical care

Jason’s mother, Hazel is our nursing colleague here at Fremantle Hospital, which has given us insight into the problems Jason experiences and also the difficulties and tensions it can create for both him and his family. As such we have undertaken to create a trust fund for Jason to attempt to alleviate some of these burdens. To date, the trust fund has enabled the family home to be adapted to Jason’s needs and for essential equipment to be purchased.

We plan to hold a "gala fund raising dinner" in june that will be attended by both politicians and sporting celebrities. The patron of Jason’s trust fund, Mr Justin Langer, Australian test cricket batsman has confirmed he will be attending this function, as has Mr Jamie Brockman and Zara and Troy from 92.9FM. We have so far been fortunate to receive donations for auction from many sporting organisations both within Australia and worldwide. A few of the items that will be auctioned at the event are signed cricket bats from Sir Donald Bradman Sachin Tendaulkar and Justin Langer, Michael Schumacker’s racing hat as well as a Sydney Olympic torch. We have also received sporting memorabilia from several West Australian clubs such as The West Coast Eagles. Other interstate AFL clubs have been overwhelmingly supportive. We also have received donations from UK and European soccer clubs, UK rugby teams amongst others.

The event is on the 11th June 2004, at the club house Tomkins Park, Alfred Cove from 7pm til 1am. The cost of tickets is $1000 for a table of ten. This cost covers pre dinner drinks, a three-course meal and also includes a selection of wines and beers. Entertainment will also be provided.

What we still really need though are further donations to auction at this event. We are appealing to you and perhaps the companies/shops you may work for, for donations of any sporting items, services etc that we can auction. We are happy to publicise any donations in forthcoming press releases should that be required. Monetry donations can be made at any ANZ bank quoting "the Jason Mclean trust fund"

If you are able to help in any shape or form please drop me an email on [email protected] and i can provide you with any information you require.
Thanks in advance
Mike Holmes

PS Thanks to Laurie for allowing us to post this here.