TMID Editorial: An inspiration to us all
Jake Vella, who for years battled an extremely rare health condition, on Friday passed away at the tender age of 15.Jake suffered from a rare condition called ROHHAD; Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic dysfunction, Hypoventilation, and Autonomic D
Jake Vella, who for years battled an extremely rare health condition, on Friday passed away at the tender age of 15.
Jake suffered from a rare condition called ROHHAD; Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic dysfunction, Hypoventilation, and Autonomic Dysregulation. To date, there are less than 200 documented cases of ROHHAD worldwide and its exact cause remains unknown.
The condition made it extremely difficult for Jake to lose weight, in spite of a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.
Jake stole the hearts of many with his courage and determination to fight his condition, as he organised a series of swimming challenges and other events, both to raise awareness about his condition and to raise funds for abandoned animals, including in campaigns together with the wife of the Prime Minister, Lydia Abela.
Together they ran a Christmas campaign called Rigal bi mħabba b'differenza urging hospital visitors to donate foodstuffs for abandoned animals.
His fighting spirit pushed him to practise boxing and learn to play the drums, guitar and piano, and last May – even as he lived at Mater Dei Hospital’s Disneyland Ward – he broke the national record for the youngest person to swim 100 kilometres in a pool.
His passing on Friday triggered an outpouring of condolences and tributes. Prime Minister Robert Abela wrote on social media that “Jake left an impact on many people” and that “He always thought about others more than he sought out help for himself.”
His wife Lydia meanwhile said that even though he had faced huge challenges he never pitied himself or his luck, and instead “with a smile which stole hearts” took the opportunity to make people better, and even to speak for those who have no voice, like animals.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola meanwhile described him as a “hero who will continue to inspire whole generations” while Nationalist Party leader Bernard Grech said that he would be remembered for his bravery, courage, and beautiful laugh and that despite the obstacles and challenges he had faced, he never gave up and always made sure to help others.
Jake truly was an inspiration to all of us. A boy who went through challenges of such magnitude, yes still found ways to work for a greater cause than any one person – he was courageous and selfless; brave and altruistic in equal measures.
The qualities he showed us as a people are qualities which, if we can all strive towards even attaining a shred of, will make the country and the world a far better place.
Jake truly does leave a legacy of inspiration behind him; inspiration to us all. May he rest in peace.
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