THE Redland community is rallying together for an Aussie Rock themed fundraiser to buy a specialised wheelchair for nine-year-old Nadia Dapas that could change her and her family’s life for the better.
Local residents who are part of the Aussie Rock Team in the Variety Bash charity motoring event aim to raise $4800 for the equipment for the Cleveland girl Nadia who has epilepsy and autism.
Community members are encouraged to wear their best wigs and tattoo sleeves to the Grandview Hotel on July 22 from 1pm to 5pm.
There will be draw prizes, raffles and an auction to win wine, gift vouchers and an Xbox.
A 40-year-old car with a 4000 watt sound system on its roof will be on display in the beer garden and classic rock music will be played.
Organiser and Variety member Stephen Whittam said as an Ormiston resident, he wanted to search for a family in the Redlands who needed help.
“It’s just nice to be involved, put a name to the face and get to know the family you are helping,” he said.
“It’s a real community event.
“We raised funds last year to help a girl to travel to the United States for ear surgery and the family had such a great experience that they’re coming to the fundraiser to give a helping hand.”
Father Luigi Dapas said he and his wife Dayna who had four young children were trying to figure a way to receive funding for Nadia when they met Mr Whittam and his wife.
“A wheelchair would help us with our everyday life to be able to take her out without her being confined to the house,” he said.
“Her other wheelchair is five-years-old and it’s now too small for her.”
Mr Dapas said Nadia experienced severe seizures that caused her to fall asleep so the family would have to pack up and return home to care for her if they were outdoors.
“The new wheelchair which has a tilting space would mean we can easily administer medication, she can comfortably stay in the chair until she wakes up and we can resume activities,” he said.
“It may not be a big thing for others but it is a game changer for us and we’re constantly looking for ways to integrate her into the community naturally.”
Mr Dapas said he was speechless to see the community come together in support so far.
Entry is a voluntary $10 to go towards supporting children who are sick, disadvantaged and have special needs.
Jocelyn Garcia
Jocelyn is a journalist at the Redland City Bulletin, covering education issues and school stories. She was a former journalist at Beaudesert Times, reporting about crime, schools and agriculture.
Jocelyn is a journalist at the Redland City Bulletin, covering education issues and school stories. She was a former journalist at Beaudesert Times, reporting about crime, schools and agriculture.
