24/06/2025
Support Needed!
Early in the first half of our third grade game, one of our brothers, Joseph Ritchie (aka Peanut), sustained a spinal injury during a match. A collapsed scrum resulted in a fractured C3 vertebrae and severe trauma to his spinal cord. Peanut is currently in Perth Hospital, facing an uncertain road to recovery.
A proud dad of five, a loving partner to his fiancée Kelly, a loyal teammate, and a friend to so many. Since moving from New Zealand to Perth in 2009, he’s built a life centered around family, hard work, and community. Now, that life has been turned upside down.
Doctors are still assessing the full extent of the damage. What’s clear is that the months ahead will be incredibly tough — emotionally, physically, and financially. There’s no certainty of full recovery, and the family’s world has changed overnight.
Kelly will need to take leave from work to care for Peanut.
The kids — especially their youngest, just 3 and 5 — will need ongoing support.
The financial toll will be massive, and long-term.
A fundraiser has been launched by Nigel and Hayley to help ease that burden — to support Peanut’s family through treatment, rehabilitation, home modifications, and the day-to-day costs that come when a family is suddenly in crisis.
💥 If you can donate, please do.
📣 If you can share, please spread the word.
🤝 If you believe in backing your Nedlands brother, now is the time.
Let’s rally around Peanut, Kelly, and the kids — not just as teammates, but as a family that cares.
All details can be found on the fundraising page:
🔗 https://www.facebook.com/share/1DTvCcqJAA/?mibextid=wwXIfr