Kick for a Cause: How LJ's Love for the Rabbitohs Helped Him Fight

This Magic Round, the South Sydney Rabbitohs are proud to be part of the NRL's Kick for a Cause campaign in partnership with the Sydney Children's Hospital Foundation. Each NRL club has been paired with a patient family from their local community — and we've been matched with LJ, a 12-year-old Rabbitohs fan and a kid who proves that the Red and Green runs deeper than football. For every successful conversion and penalty goal the Rabbitohs kick during Magic Round, $1,000 will be donated to the Sydney Children's Hospital Foundation.

You can also show your support by donating directly at schf.org.au/kfac-south-sydney-rabbitohs

LJ's Story

In September 2024, LJ's family noticed something wasn't right. The normally sporty, active 12-year-old was exhausted at training and games, battling frequent fevers and one day at school during a hip hop class, he suddenly lost his vision.

A routine blood test the following morning delivered devastating news: LJ had acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).

In an instant, his world changed. LJ was admitted to Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, where he began treatment far from home. Based outside of Sydney, he and his parents relocated for treatment, leaving his two brothers behind with family.

The Promise That Kept Him Going

Through it all, one thing never changed. LJ's love for the Rabbitohs. Early in his treatment, the Rabbitohs visited him in hospital and made a promise: when he was well enough, he would come to a home game and receive a special behind-the-scenes tour.

That promise became his motivation. It gave him something to hold onto and a reason to get up, keep walking and keep pushing forward on the hardest of days.

The Rabbitohs were with LJ throughout his journey, bringing joy and hope when it was needed most, including the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to speak at the Rabbitohs' annual Red and Green Ball in 2025. Now in Year 7, LJ is on maintenance chemotherapy and taking things one day at a time. But one thing is certain: his support for the Rabbitohs is as strong as ever.

*Support LJ and kids like him this Magic Round at schf.org.au/kfac-south-sydney-rabbitohs