‘Their childhood is kind of taken … when Levi is around children he really light ups.’: Jordan Ablett

Jordan Ablett has given a rare glimpse into her and AFL legend Gary’s life with son Levi — who was born with a degenerative disease — revealing “more challenges” are arising as he gets older.

Jordan Ablett has given new insight into life with precious son Levi who bravely continues to mark new milestones.

Ablett, again an ambassador for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, reflected on the family’s journey in the wake of Levi’s fifth birthday in January.

Ablett and husband, Geelong champion Gary, revealed in 2020 that Levi had been diagnosed with a rare degenerative illness.

Jordan said Levi was thriving at home and had developed a special bond with his little sister and sidekick Grace, and baby brother Ezra.

“Grace is now nearly two-and-a-half and they’ve got a super cute connection and even having Ez who is seven-months now, it’s nice to surround Levi with children,’’ Jordan said.

The Abletts are faced with new challenges as Levi grows. Picture: Supplied

Gary Ablett with Levi at the beach. Picture: Supplied

“Hearing what other families have said, their childhood is kind of taken from them a bit so when Levi is around children he really does light up.

“Everyone keeps asking how he’s doing and he’s pretty much the same to be honest.

“I feel like we sound a bit repetitive but he’s getting older and he’s growing which means there are more challenges that are arising but we’re managing.

“Over the course of the year we have months on and months off (at the RCH). Lots of appointments, different teams obviously, and they’ve been amazing for us.”

Jordan attended the Good Friday Appeal launch last week and resonated with the families and faces of this year’s Appeal, two-year-old Finley who is battling spina bifida and 10 year-old Emily who is fighting brain cancer.

Jordan Ablett with other ambassadors of the Good Friday Appeal. Picture: Supplied

She said Levi, who has never spoken, wouldn’t go to school as his care is best at home on the Surf Coast.

“It’s just too hard,’’ Jordan said.

“He has a lot of needs and he’s so happy at home and we know how to care for him. So rather than putting him in that environment where someone else just does what we’re doing but not to the level, he’s so happy at home.

“He’s a homebody and likes the familiarity. He loves being at home. He’s got a pretty low immune system so we’ve also weighed that up as well if someone is sick around him.”

Jordan posted joyous pictures of Levi on his birthday spending time in the water at the beach with Gary.

The couple has often shared their inspiring and heartbreaking journey while they adapted to their new world in a bid to support and uplift others.

Gary Ablett enjoys precious time with Levi in Queensland. Picture: Instagram

Levi is now five but has never spoken. Picture: Instagram

Jordan said she couldn’t be prouder of the “beam of sunshine” and “influential light” who continues to amaze and be a blessing.

“Having three kids and also Gaz no longer working in a footy routine, we’re able to tackle the parenting together which is nice,’’ Jordan said.

“Even having kids without a disability or any help issues is hard, but that extra challenge is harder as well.

“Fin’s parents talking about what matters most is the joy and the love and all of those lessons our children teach us.

Joel Selwood carries Levi at the MCG. Picture: Michael Klein

Levi loves the company of other kids. Picture: Supplied

“I was thinking about that the other day that we don’t get those opportunities too much to reflect. Just because these big things take time in themselves and throw in another couple of kids and life as well, you don’t get the opportunity to stop and reflect.

“It’s nice hearing stories and really understanding other families on a personal level. I got a bit emotional with both of those stories because I am really connecting and it’s making me reflect on my own journey as well.”

Last year Jordan spoke about her emotion-charged connection to the RCH.

“Prior to being a mother, I always knew that the RCH was a place that cares for children who are unwell, but something I’ve learnt since now being a mum who often uses the RCH, I realise just how amazing of a job they do at loving the children all the while caring for them,’’ Jordan said.

“Being an ambassador means a great deal to me.

“As someone who has spent a lot of time at the RCH relying heavily on the care and support it provides for my son, I know very well how important the RCH is and the work the people there do.”

Last year, the Good Friday Appeal raised a record-breaking tally of $23,061,320.

The Appeal this year is on March 29 and broadcast on Channel 7.

goodfridayappeal.com.au