Bree
6 February 2006 is a day that will be imprinted in my mind for eternity. It was the day I received diagnosis of my precious 8-year-old daughter’s condition. Spinal Muscular Atrophy – no treatment, no cure. The prognosis, terminal.
Eight months before diagnosis, Bree was active, outgoing and happy. She loved dancing lessons, running, riding her bike and scooter, long beach walks collecting shells and all other things children like to do. Now, she was unable to do any of the above.
The condition rapidly took from her a lot of her mobility and along with it, her confidence, self-esteem and self-worth. She no longer felt the same as all the other children. She pushed me away mentally and physically… I was her mum and I couldn’t help her. She believed I wouldn’t help her.
It was at this time I was given a brochure on Paradise Kids. I enrolled Bree in the Illness Support Program and it was the wisest decision I have ever made.
In a matter of weeks the difference in my child was amazing. She could smile again, wanted her friends to visit and play and I will cherish the day I received my first hug and kiss and heard the words “I love you mummy” … something I had not heard in months.
Paradise Kids gave me my confident, happy, well-adjusted child back. They have taught her she is more than her illness and for that I will be forever grateful. The words “thank you” seem so insufficient for the miracle they have achieved. I would like to say a special thank you to Lizzi for her ongoing support and advice, and to Bree’s buddy, Geoff, who has gone above and beyond in his work to make my daughter’s world very special.”
Ruth Nossiter, Helensvale
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