Cowboys in Capes: Players bring smiles to Townsville’s littlest battlers

Cowboys legend Jake Granville says staying positive in tough situations is a real superpower, and after visiting Townsville’s youngest hospital patients, he knows they’ve got it in spades.

Jake Granville and Jakiya Whitfeld with baby Harry David, has been in hospital for 6 months. Picture: Supplied

Some of Townsville’s youngest patients had their spirits lifted with a visit from Cowboys legend Jake Granville and NRLW star Jakiya Whitfeld, as part of the Cowboys in Capes program.

The initiative, delivered in partnership with Brighter Lives Townsville Hospital Foundation and supported by Sun Metals, saw the footy stars spreading smiles at the Townsville University Hospital on Thursday.

“When it comes to superpowers, I think staying positive in the face of challenges is one of the most powerful, and these young people have it in spades,” Granville said.

“No matter what battles they’re facing they always greet us with a smile and enthusiasm which is infectious” he said.

“It shows us that simply stopping by to have a chat is a meaningful way to make a difference in someone’s life.

Jakiya Whitfeld and Jake Granville with young Kyson Huen. Picture: Supplied

“There is always plenty of advice and inspiration coming our way too, so I think the players get more out of it than the patients do a lot of the time.”

The program, which has Cowboys players visiting wards including the renal, cancer, and children’s units, is all about lifting spirits and bringing a bit of fun to those doing it tough.

Brighter Lives CEO Stephanie Naunton said the visits give sick kids something to look forward to.

“When everything seems overwhelming and scary it can really help to have something exciting and fun to think about,” she said.

Cowboys Community Foundation CEO Fiona Pelling said for the Cowboys and their fans, it’s about more than just footy — it’s about community.

“These visits remind us all how much strength we find when we support each other,” she said.

For more info on the Cowboys in Capes program, visit www.cowboys.com.au/community/cowboys-in-capes.

Originally published as Cowboys in Capes: Players bring smiles to Townsville’s littlest battlers