In times of war, human nature is a terrible terrible beast, but in times of love, support or help, human nature is the most wonderful thing people can ever experience.
So was the case for the Forsyth family of Brad, Ange and Lara on December 2, when the Hauraki North Rugby club and Hauraki Plains communities came together to organise a ‘K’s for Karly’ walk-a-thon for Hauraki North’s special sparkling little Diamond who had passed away from a rare cancer on October 28.
The aim of the event was to raise money for the wonderful Starship Hospital and Ronald McDonald House where the family had all stayed and were very well cared for during Karly’s treatment.
The walk started at the Waitakaruru Stadium – Bull Ring – Diamond Mine, at 8am and continued for 12 hours until 8pm. People of all ages and from throughout the Hauraki Plains and Thames Valley were coming and going throughout the day to finally raise more than $10,000.
Some very dedicated people walked for the whole 12 hours, having refreshment breaks when needed, while a certain 80-year-old plus rugby club life member walked a few laps, then was pushed around the final couple of laps in a wheelchair – well done Burkey.
The Ngatea Volunteer Fire Brigade turned up mid afternoon to cool off the kids with a “bubble bath”, which was very much appreciated by everyone.
For many years to come, Karly’s courage, determination, humor and love of life will be remembered at the club and everywhere her short 17-year journey took her.
And there is that one very special piece of history that Karly and her Dad, Brad, created this year in becoming the first ever father daughter duo to play for Hauraki North in our 115 year history – both as halfbacks. The bond that the Hauraki North Diamonds women’s rugby team has created in just one short season is immense and unbreakable, and Karly fulfilled her dream of becoming a Diamond and wearing the No 9 jersey in their first ever season.
The wider Forsyth whanau would like to thank the Hauraki North Rugby club, Hauraki Plains College plus all the Hauraki Plains communities for their amazing love and support of their sad loss of Karly. Fly high Karly Girl. Diamonds are forever.
– By PETER MITCHELL
