Camp Simcha had 75 runners taking part this year, across all the different races.
Among them was 5-year-old Yishai Freedman who took part for Camp Simcha along with his 3 older siblings, Sara, Michal and Akiva.
Yishai was diagnosed with leukaemia last September and the family has been supported by Camp Simcha since then. Having recently finished his active treatment, and just returned to school, doing the 1k was a real milestone for Yishai, says his mum Jacqui. “Having spent so many months in a hospital bed, this was huge for Yishai; he was very excited.
“We are so grateful to be able to take part and we wanted to try and raise money for Camp Simcha in appreciation of everything they have done for us.”
Six-year-old Yoni Norman also did the 1k. This time last year Yoni was unable to walk unaided after becoming ill with Guillain-Barré syndrome – a very rare immune system disorder that affects the nerves and can lead to weakness and paralysis.
Thankfully it was treatable, but Yoni had to learn to do everything again, to crawl, stand, walk, run, jump, go upstairs – and he had to get his strength back; the family were supported by Camp Simcha throughout this time.
His mum Jardena says: “Camp Simcha brought joy back into our lives at such a hard time. Yoni was so excited to be doing the fun run now to raise money for Camp Simcha, especially when you think about the fact he couldn’t walk independently this time last year.”
And running the 5k for Camp Simcha was 9-year-old Izac Anstey whose sister Ari was battling cancer last year – and whose family has been supported by the charity.
Mum Mattea said: “When Izac decided to do the Maccabi fun run, we knew it had to be for Camp Simcha. Izac’s Camp Simcha volunteer Big Brother Sam has literally saved us. He has brought so much joy to Izac when I couldn’t focus on him. When Sam walks in Izac’s face lights up – he is very special to all of us.”