It has been announced that Jake Vella has sadly passed away at Mater Dei hospital.
The 15-year-old was battling a rare condition called ROHHAD, which stands for Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic dysfunction, Hypoventilation, and Autonomic Dysregulation which affects one’s hormones, leading to obesity and making it extremely difficult to lose weight.
Despite this, Jake was known for his determination and kept on going with his physical activity and environmental activism. At the age of 12, he set the national record as the youngest person to swim 100km in a pool within 33 hours and 15 minutes.
He also made it a point to raise funds for animal charities through the organisation of national activities, and to raise awareness about plastic pollution.
Prime Minister Robert Abela has shared his sorrow on hearing the news, stating that Jake "shared his dreams with Lydia, Giorgia and with so many other families, leading to beautiful initiatives, and we thank him for this from the bottom our hearts."
Sincere condolences to all his loved ones