Join cycle challenge to help sick children

It’s scary and overwhelming and there’s not many opportunities for fun and good times.
Luckily there are caring individuals like Condell Park’s Jocelyn Gonsalves who has been a volunteer for Starlight Children’s Foundation for 20 years.
She said Starlight was founded nearly 40 years ago to create joy, laughter and happiness for sick children and their families facing their toughest times.
While working as a Starlight ‘wishgranter’, she had the privilege of turning children’s wishes into a reality.
“I’ve helped to deliver many wishes including to a boy, 14, who was fed through a tube and not able to do much,” she said.
“All he wanted was a playstation but we also organised an X-box, TV, cabinet and surround sound system for his bedroom.
“When he saw all the items in his room, he burst into tears of joy as did his mother and father.
“Another unforgettable moment was a seven-year-old girl who had her heart set on getting a white piano which we were able to organise and when she saw it, she just clung on and on and wouldn’t let it go; it’s such a beautiful feeling knowing you have made someone so happy.”
Not having children herself, Jocelyn said her life’s motto was to make a positive difference in the lives of children and Starlight aligned perfectly with this.
As well as volunteering at events and as a ‘wishgranter’, she has also been fundraising for the past four years by taking part in the Tour de Kids Cycling Challenge.
Throughout September, participants commit to cycling a certain amount of kilometres and raising funds for the foundation.
Jocelyn undertakes the challenge by riding a stationary bike at home or at Revesby Workers’ Club.
“I’ve raised $24,000 since 2020 and I’m aiming to reach a total of $30,000 this year,” she said.
“I’ve nominated to ride 200km and I’m looking for others to join my team or make a donation, no matter the size, for the Starlight Foundation; bringing happiness to sick children is the best feeling in the world, nothing beats it.”
For more info or to donate: tourdekids.org.au/jocelyng