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 TEIVOVO.COM – INTERNATIONAL 7s
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Wednesday 22 November 2006
Digicel Fiji 7s team make patient's day
By William Tabuya
Fourteen-year-old heart patient, Jonacani Baleinalase, could not believe his eyes when the Digicel Fiji 7s squad and management visited him today at the Colonial War Memorial hospital.
The 15-man squad and four officials presented a signed rugby ball, and two Digicel Fiji 7s polo shirts to the youngster who recently underwent an operation from a team of New Zealand surgeons.
Jonacani had earlier requested to see the master, Waisale Serevi, before his operation. The 7s wizard, upon granting his wish, promised that he would return with the squad after his surgery.
Team manager Opeti Ravai said that a surprised Jonacani had tears streaming down his cheeks when Serevi presented the gifts to him.
”Jonacani was happy at first, and it turned to tears when he realised that it was the full squad plus management that was visiting him,” Ravai said.
“This exercise also creates team bonding for the team who are preparing for Dubai and George.”
The team drew in crowds as they waited outside the ICU.
Bua fly-half William Ryder said the visit was a good one and it was something different to do other than the usual training sessions.
“By coming here, the team will help Jonacani get better faster. And it is new to us to be at a hospital rather than the ground and pool,” Ryder said.
The Digicel Fiji 7s side leaves on Monday for the Dubai and George tournaments.
Int'l 7s main page
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