Three generations join forces for the annual Run for the Kids

After receiving lifesaving treatment at the Royal Children’s Hospital, Jocelyn De Iulio is giving back by participating in Run for the Kids alongside her mother and grandmother — a tradition the trio has continued for more than a decade.

Carolyn Prosser, daughter Tanya De Julio and granddaughter Jocelyn have participated in every Run for the Kids over the past decade. Picture: Alex Coppel

With an infectious smile and fighting spirit, Jocelyn De Iulio has overcome more hurdles than most in her young life.

Diagnosed at birth with migrating partial epilepsy of infancy, Jocelyn wasn’t expected to live beyond 12 months, but thanks to the unwavering support from the Royal Children’s Hospital and her loving family, she continues to defy the odds, almost 12 years later.

“Jocelyn’s condition is complex,” said her mother, Tanya.

“It causes recurrent seizures, sometimes as many as 100 or more a day, in addition to cerebral palsy, dystonia, cortical visual impairment, scoliosis and global development delay.”

NEW NAME, COURSE FOR 2019 FUN RUN

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Jocelyn De Iulio is known for her infectious smile. Picture: Carolyn Prosser

The 11-year-old continues to defy the odds. Picture: Carolyn Prosser

As recently as this past December, Jocelyn spent 10 days in the Royal Children’s ICU. “We have to remind ourselves that every day is a gift, not a given. We’re so grateful to have her in our lives and we’ll continue ticking off her bucket list.”

To give back to the hospital for everything they’ve done over the years, Jocelyn’s family have participated in the Herald Sun/Transurban Run for the Kids for more than a decade.

This year will see three generations — Jocelyn, her mother Tanya De Iulio and her grandmother Carolyn Prosser — participate in the annual fun run.

“We love being involved in the event because there’s a real community spirit on the course,” said Carolyn.

“Whether you’re a former or current patient, part of the medical staff or know someone personally involved with the Royal Children’s, everyone relates to one another on some kind of level and it’s incredibly moving.”

The trio of strong women is gearing up for this year’s event, which takes place on Sunday April 7.

Show your support for the De Iulio family and the Royal Children’s Hospital by fundraising and registering to participate in either the Woodlea Short Course or the 2019 Long Course.

— For more information, visit runforthekids.com.au