On Saturday, I spent some time reflecting on the life of Jon Mannah. Jon passed away on 18 January 2013 from Hodgkin’s lymphoma; this weekend marked the first anniversary of his passing.
Jon started his NRL career at the Cronulla Sharks where he played from 2009-2011. In 2011 he came back to the Parramatta Eels to join his brother Tim, who the next year would become captain of the team.
However, the focus of this story is not on Jon’s short lived NRL career, but simply on the tremendous individual he was.
Jon was first diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2009. His battle with this insidious disease lasted three and a half years. Following his diagnosis in 2009, Jon fought his way back to full fitness and even managed to play another 12 games for Cronulla.
However, he had another relapse in 2011 while he was playing for the Wentworthville Magpies, finally losing his battle in January last year.
Everyone who met Jon (including myself on a number of occasions) was absolutely inspired by his tremendous joy for life and his courage as he continued to fight with dignity and grace.
He tackled his diagnosis with such a positive attitude and filled people with such joy, no matter his condition.
He was a true gentleman and a role model for our game and the NRL is a much sadder place without his fabulous smile.
So wherever you are today, spare a thought for a gentleman we have lost and for his family.
Jon was taken far too soon.
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