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The bravery of a young Dunedin boy will see him attend the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France in September.
Rugby legend Stephen Donald has selected Mason Lynch as a Land Rover Defenders of Tomorrow mascot for the cup.
Mason was selected for demonstrating bravery, having faced adversity many would never encounter at such a young age.
When Mason was 5, his mother Mel died from breast cancer.
Last year, Mason faced another life hurdle as his father John Lynch was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
Mason and his sister Sophie, 12, are being adopted by family friends Melanie and Rob Atkinson.
Mrs Atkinson is a teacher at Mason’s school.
"We heard the sad news at school about John and it really tore at my heart.
"I went home and talked to Rob about it, who immediately said that we could be their safe place to land while they were going through this.
"These two kids are very special and it would be such a blessing to be a part of theirlife."
Sophie and Mason were incredibly resilient, brave and strong individuals, she said.
At present the children divide their time between living with their father and their foster parents.
Mr Lynch said he was elated to hear Mason had been chosen as a mascot.
At this difficult time it was helpful to know his children would be looked after and that there were still opportunities for good times ahead, he said.
Mrs Atkinson will travel with Mason to France for the Rugby World Cup.
She describes Mason as the biggest rugby fan she has ever met.
As a teacher at his school, she sees him play the sport during every break time and when at home, Mason enjoys watching replays of his favourite games on YouTube, she said.
Mason said being selected for the mascot experience, including return flights to France, accommodation, tickets to Rugby World Cup 2023 and the chance to walk out on the field with the world’s best players, was “super exciting — I can’t believe I’m going to France for the Rugby World Cup".
"This really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
"I’m really looking forward to meeting the players and stepping on to the rugby field alongside the international teams.”
Mason is the first of four tamariki aged 7-13 years who will be selected as mascots representing one of four behaviours — bravery, innovation, positivity and aroha.
Mr Donald said he was passionate about inspiring the next generation of New Zealanders.
“We are a nation full of deeply passionate and caring individuals, which is why I believe we create some of the most successful sports teams and thought leaders alike.
"Reviewing Mason’s Defender of Tomorrow submission was a truly moving experience — he really deserves this incredible opportunity.”
- A Givealittle page has been set up to help build a sleepout for Sophie and Mason to be together at the Atkinson home.
To give visit givealittle.co.nz/cause/amazing-family-come-forward-to-privately-foster