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Jake Vella

Profile

Jake Vella, a 14-year-old residing in Birzebbuga, Malta, is currently enrolled in Year 10 at St. Michael School, where his favourite subjects include Maths, Accounts, Economics, and ICT.

At the tender age of 5, Jake began facing a unique challenge—he rapidly gained weight despite attempts at incorporating sports and healthier eating into his routine. Concerned, Jake's parents consulted with doctors, leading to a series of tests and a life-altering diagnosis. Jake was found to have Rohhad Net Syndrome (ROHHAD), a rare disorder affecting respiratory control, autonomic nervous system regulation, and involving endocrine system abnormalities.

In 2015, following the diagnosis, Jake embraced the world of triathlon, initially practicing swimming, cycling, and running. However, due to leg discomfort, he transitioned to cycling and swimming, dedicating three years to triathlon and an additional two years to cycling and swimming.

Jake's resilience extends beyond personal achievements. He has undertaken numerous charity initiatives, notably organizing swims to raise funds for the Association for Abandoned Animals. One of his most notable accomplishments was a 100km swim in a 25m pool over 20 days, coinciding with his mother's 20-day radiotherapy sessions, completing it in an impressive time of 33hrs.15mins.39secs.

Over the past two years, Jake orchestrated a paw walk around Mater Dei for the Association for Abandoned Animals, and together with Dr. Lydia, he initiated a Christmas Tree at the Main Entrance of Mater Dei, collecting pet food for animal sanctuaries.

In closing, Jake leaves us with a powerful motivational message: "Always believe in yourself, never give up, and never let your disability hinder your goals." His story serves as an inspiration to us all.

Interview

  1. What inspired you to take up triathlon training despite facing challenges associated with Rohhad Net Syndrome, and how has the sport impacted your life?

Iva, jiena l-ewwel ma bdejt nitqawwa b’hekk bdejt bil-futbol u ghamilt tliet ijiem u m’ghogobnix. Missieri jittrenja t-triathlon ukoll u bdejt naghmel it-triathlon li tinkludi ghawm, ciklizmu u giri u vera hadt pjacir b’dan l-isport. Fil-giri bdejt inbaghti ftit peress li jien ghandi ftit tal-piz minhabba li l-kundizzjoni tieghi taffettwa l-obezità u hafna affarijiet ohra. Però vera sport li beda joghgobni.  

  1. Dealing with Rohhad Net Syndrome can present unique challenges. How did you navigate these challenges in your triathlon training, and what strategies have you developed to overcome obstacles both in sports and daily life?

It-Triathlon lili ghinni hafna. Kemm jista’ jkun irrid inzomm lili nnifsi f’kundizzjoni tajba u nkun healthy hafna.

  1. Your fundraising runs for animals are making a positive impact. Can you share a memorable experience or accomplishment from your fundraising efforts, and how do you feel about the contribution you are making to animal causes?

Jien inhobb hafna l-annimali u fl-2020 ghumt 20 km b’rizq l-annimali abbandunati f’20 gurnata f’pool ta’ 25 metru, dan waqt li ommi kienet qed tiehu l-kimoterapija u r-radjuterapija fl-isptar. Dawn l-ahhar sentejn jien u Dr Lydia Abela organnizzajna is-Siggu tal-Milied fil-dahla principali ta’ Mater Dei fejn gbarna ikel ghall-annimali abbandunati u ghamilt ukoll mixja madwar l-isptar Mater Dei. Iż-żewġ attivitajiet kienu ta’ suċċess. Jien nhossni ferhan hafna li ghent lill-annimali b’dan il-gest.

  1. What advice would you give to other young children facing health challenges who aspire to pursue sports or engage in charitable activities?

Nixtieq li tfal ohra jaghmlu xi tip ta’ sport, idoqqu xi strument jew affarijiet oħra, kemm ghas-sahha mentali kif ukoll ghas-sahha fizika.

  1. How has your personal journey shaped your perspective on overcoming obstacles and making a difference in the lives of others?

            Nahseb li mmotivajt hafna persuni ohra li huma fl-istess sitwazzjoni tieghi.