Jeremy McIlwee

Jeremy was born 8 weeks prematurely. He spent the first 2 weeks in the Special Care Baby Unit where he required a blood transfusion. Whilst there it was discovered that Jeremy was suffering from Alpha 1 Antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic condition affecting the lungs and liver. As a child Jeremy was diagnosed with Perthes Disease, a condition which affects the hip joints and may require corrective surgery later on in his teens. He has also been diagnosed with Asthma. However, Jeremy does not know the meaning of can't. Even though he has these ailments he is a keen sportsperson and has represented his School in the local swimming galas winning Gold two years running. He has also attained his 3000 metres and junior lifesaving swimming badges. He is a keen gymnast and is currently working on his Gold award at the Salto National Gymnastics Centre in Lisburn which will host the Chinese Olympic Gymnastic Teams prior to this year's Olympics.Jeremy has assisted at the Boccia Cup last year. As a member of the Scouts he assisted in the cleanup of a river towpath for the past 3 years which helps the environment, wildlife and locals who would walk or cycle along it.Jeremy has always been a big brother to any of the foster children who have stayed at his house, helping them with homework, playing games, reading them stories and generally reassuring them that they are in a friendly and stable environment. He has also been known to change nappies on occasions.