Felix And Maxi Team Up For CanTeen

By Zoe Edema on August 8, 2012 in People

Felix McFadyen is 14 years old. One year ago, the Maroubra Beach local’s life changed dramatically when his father was diagnosed with cancer. He passed away seven weeks later. For a young boy, Felix´s profound strength and optimism are deeply admirable. To celebrate his dad’s life, and to make a difference in the lives of others dealing with cancer, Felix is teaming up with Bondi Rescue lifeguard Trent ‘Maxi’ Maxwell and taking on the Sun Herald City2Surf to raise funds for CanTeen, an organisation that gives young people the support they need when dealing with cancer.

The Sun Herald City2Surf has been running since 1971, inviting walkers, joggers, runners and bystanders alike to participate in a community event that stretches 14-kilometers between Hyde Park in Sydney´s CBD to the finish line at Bondi Beach. This year, Sydney´s most popular sporting event will be held on Sunday, August 12.

The collaboration between Felix and Maxi came about thanks to their mutual love of surfing and Maxi’s role as a Canteen ambassador.

When Felix was in Year 4, his dad taught him how to surf down at Maroubra Beach. They often spent a lot of time relaxing, playing and surfing down there. These days Felix regularly takes on the big waves out back with his mates and their dads.

Since his dad passed away, Felix has been attending camps organised by CanTeen, where he has been able to meet people who find themselves in similar situations. Trying to comprehend the immensity of cancer and all its effects is a near impossible task unless you have experienced it firsthand. The CanTeen camps and counseling sessions have provided Felix with an environment that allows him to hang out with kids his own age who have had similar experiences with cancer in their families and others who have had cancer themselves.

On top of the great support network CanTeen has provided, Felix has been surrounded by love and support of his local school community, friends and family. While his mother, Kristina, heralds her son´s strength and courage in such a difficult situation, one might imagine he has learnt from the example of two incredible parents.

Felix is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to run alongside Maxi, whom he considers a great inspiration. To support Felix and Maxi as they take on the Sun Herald City2Surf to raise money for CanTeen, please visit www.fundraise.city2surf.com.au/Felix_Mcfadyen