ALMOST two years ago, John McSweeny formed a working relationship with Jeff Clarke, a man he now calls a brother.
Six years ago, Jeff found out he had melanoma. With treatment, the cancer went into remission but returned last year.
The father of two young children has exhausted his treatment options here and his last hope is therapy in China.
Together with the drag racing community and Hog’s Breath Mandurah, John has raised $70,000 for Jeff’s trip.
“When I found out, I wanted to quit racing to look after him and was told not to quit, because if I quit then (Jeff) quits and Full Boar Racing is all about who we are,” John said. Full Boar Racing is the pair’s drag team.
“Joining Jeff’s team, I have won and set records, but the friendship I got from Jeff is the best thing,” said John.
John took Jeff to a seminar that detailed the $40,000 treatment option and jumped into action.
“Drag racers are like a family – one racer came up donated $50 and said keep the money,” he said.
“I thought I can do better than this and began to think of ways to raise more money.”
Hog’s Breath Mandurah owner Kristina Drage became involved and despite being busy opening another restaurant in Midland, decided to help. Kristina sponsors Full Boar Racing and felt that a fundraiser at the restaurant was the best way to get donations.
“He has had cancer for a long time and has got an amazing will to live,” she said. “Jeff is sick so he couldn’t be here, but the aim was to get (the attendees) bidding on the auction.”
John said the money raised would relieve the financial burden on Jeff’s family.
“He isn’t a charity case, he is a Mandurah boy and he has earned our respect,” he said.
Call John on 0418 953 591 or visit www.fullboarracing.com.au.