Big thanks for the gift of life

THERE are some things bigger than footy and that was brought home yesterday when Tasmanian AFL star Ben Brown shared the spotlight with his 14-year-old cousin Grace Manson. Grace was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at age six and, after seven years of treatment at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital, Grace was told she was cured earlier this year.

At a press conference with her giant cousin, Grace stole the show when she thanked the hospital for saving her life as part of the Good Friday Appeal.

DESPITE North Melbourne’s loss to Essendon in yesterday’s Good Friday Appeal Kick for the Kids game, all-round nice guy Ben Brown had a reason to smile.

Seated next to his cousin Grace Manson, 14, the Roos forward spoke of his family’s connection with Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital at the post-match press conference.

“Today is an amazing day for all of us,” he said. “[The RCH] are the reason that Grace is still here with us.”

Grace, who has Down syndrome, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at just six years old.

After seven years of treatment, Grace was told she was cured earlier this year.

“The Royal Children’s Hospital did save my life,” she told the media.

Earlier this week, Brown said he admired Grace’s amazing outlook on life.

“It’s something that I think we can learn a lot from — and something that I try to learn from,” Brown said. “It’s a great part of her personality that she’s so bright and happy and doesn’t let anything faze her.”

$5 from every adult ticket to the game and $10 from family tickets was donated directly to the Good Friday Appeal. Visit godfriday/appeal.com.au.

More on the game: P68-69