Gary Ablett has posted a heartfelt tribute to son Levi on his birthday
Gary Ablett has revealed the life lessons he has learned from fatherhood in a heartfelt tribute to his son Levi on his second birthday.
Confidential
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Gary Ablett has shared a touching tribute to his son Levi on his second birthday.
The former Geelong star, who retired last year, said being a dad was a joy and had taught him many life lessons.
Ablett and wife Jordan revealed last year Levi was a battling a rare and degenerative disease.
“Happy birthday my son,’’ Ablett wrote on Instagram.
“How great it is to be your Dad. You’ve only been in this world for 2 young years and yet you’ve already taught us many lessons that often take a lifetime to learn. From showing us how joy can be found in the little things to how when challenges arise we can overcome them with bravery and a big smile.”
Ablett posted a series of adorable pictures of Levi and added more beautiful insights: “I love the quality time that we share together … whether it’s 2am in the morning while I’m trying to settle you but you just want to play with my face. Whether it’s holding your hand at the hospital for another test or when you have to have your daily injection.
“I love it when we fly up and down the hallway together in your chair and how I know your (sic) smiling even though I’m behind you because I can see your cheeks getting bigger and bigger. I love giving you your bottle each day while we look into each other’s eyes for a good 10 minutes. I love seeing you stand in your standing frame and watching you look to Mum and I for encouragement and then seeing that smile when you get it.
“I love everything about you Levi, you bring me great joy and I’m so proud of you.”
Last year before Geelong played in the grand final Jordan told the Herald Sun her perspective had changed having a child with health battles, which is why she became an ambassador for the My Room Children’s Cancer Charity.
“It has certainly been challenging but also the best,’’ Jordan said.
“Mothering Levi has given me a great insight into families who are in the same position with their own children. I know first-hand how complex it is and how it’s a completely different parenting experience, though still so rewarding.
“I feel privileged to be entrusted with such a precious responsibility, and to care for Levi, who needs us and who we love so deeply and fiercely.
“I’ve always had a heart for vulnerable people, especially children and I love that My Room share that same passion. Having also lost my Mum recently to cancer and having a child with his own heath battles, I can really relate and appreciate how essential this level of support is.”
For Jordan it was also a tough year after losing her mother Trudy to cancer in August.
“It has been really tough … I know that that’s something that will take time,’’ she said.
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