Twelve-year-old Siris is a gentle soul with a big smile and a quiet strength that shines through.
He lives with his parents and four siblings, and life is full-on, especially with two children living with disability, a new baby in the family and a steady stream of medical appointments.
Siris lives with Cerebral Palsy (GMFCS Level 5), severe scoliosis, hip dysplasia and a fragile respiratory system. He’s PEG-fed, non-verbal and often in significant discomfort, particularly when seated. His only wheelchair was fitted for him in New Zealand when he was five. Now twelve, it’s far too small and no longer able to support his posture or medical needs
Because Siris is not eligible for the NDIS, and with the cost of specialised equipment running into the thousands, his family simply couldn’t afford the wheelchair he desperately needed. With no other options, Siris spent most days lying on the couch or in bed, missing school, missing time with friends and facing frequent chest infections.
This year, thanks to the generosity of Variety supporters, Siris received a fully customised manual wheelchair, valued at $21,463.70. This wheelchair is complete with tilt-in-space functionality and specialised seating to support his scoliosis and leg length differences.
The impact has been remarkable. The new chair has eased Siris’s pain, improved his respiratory health and given him the chance to return to school and be part of everyday life again. And the difference has extended beyond Siris. His mum, Kay, says she finally feels at ease knowing her little boy is comfortable, supported and able to participate in the world around him.
Every Child Deserves to Thrive
Change Takes All Of Us
Every child deserves the chance to explore, grow, and dream without limits. Their potential shouldn’t be defined by disability, illness, or financial hardship. We work to remove those barriers and open the doors to new possibilities.
