Unlike other boys his age, 19-year-old Jackson faces unique challenges. He will never be able to get a driver’s licence or stay overnight with friends.
Jackson was diagnosed with epilepsy at a young age. His mum, Natalie, describes the journey as extremely challenging. “Our lives were turned upside down. Witnessing his journey from before the seizures to now has been tough. It’s a challenging condition, and we are constantly on edge.”
The Swan Districts Football Club has been a game-changer for Jackson. It has given him a chance to play footy, and a path toward becoming a mentor for other young people with disability.
Jackson is set to embark on a traineeship where he will play a vital role in delivering the Swans Elevate program. This will include mentoring younger students and contributing to wheelchair sports initiatives in schools and the community.
Jackson helps to deliver the Swan Elevate Program.
Funded by Telethon, the Swans Elevate program stands as a powerful force for young people with disability, empowering them to maximise opportunities as well as building physical, mental and social wellbeing.
“The opportunities given to Jackson have been life-changing. He’s made lifelong friends and brought our family closer. He loves helping others and feels like he’s making a real difference in people’s lives and the community,” Natalie said.
For Jackson, the football club is more than just a playing field; it’s a place where he feels valued and completely at home.
When asked about his plans for the future, Jackson said: “I wasn’t ever sure what I wanted to do for a job. I love sports and want to be involved in a sporting club for work but was always told that there were no opportunities for me to do that. I grew up barracking for the Swans and always dreamed of playing for them. Now I am doing that and doing some work for them, and I am really happy about that.”