Meet Neva, a four-year-old vibrant Victorian girl who is also the official face of the 2012 Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight® presented by Myer.
Neva is a bright and bubbly young girl, whose family was supported by Vision Australia’s Child Services when she was diagnosed with Albinism at three months of age.
Her mother Amy recalls noticing that Neva had trouble focusing and when she visited the opthamologist, she was told her daughter had a “little bit of albinism.”
She explains, “It wasn't until an early childhood educator from Vision Australia came to visit me and explained exactly how albinism would affect Neva. We would have to minimise her exposure to the sun, she would need a teaching aide throughout her school life and she would never be able to drive.
“It was a complete shock to me and I wondered how my baby girl was going to cope with life. It was really, really hard.”
When she reflects on the support of Vision Australia Amy says, “Without doubt they have been the biggest factor in Neva becoming the confident child that she is today.
“Without them, Neva would be left behind. Thanks to Vision Australia she now has the same opportunities as other kids and we, as parents, are better educated on how to go about getting the best help and resources for Neva in the important years ahead.”
Acting CEO David Speyer explains, “With Vision Australia’s support, families like Neva’s can help their children to build their confidence to interact with others, prepare for school and develop into self-assured young adults.
“But we need on-going support from local communities. This Christmas, please help Vision Australia give kids like Neva the best possible start to life by getting involved with Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight or by visiting www.visionaustralia.org and donating to our Light a Candle campaign,” says Mr Speyer.
Myer CEO Bernie Brookes added,”It is with great pride that Myer continues to support this special event as presenting partner of Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight. We commend Vision Australia for their ongoing commitment to helping those in our community who are blind or have low vision and for their dedication to this cause for more than 140 years.”
Tickets are on sale NOW and can be purchased through Ticketmaster on 136 100. This magical night is held on Monday, 24 December at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl and is proudly telecast live by the Nine Network from 8pm.
For more information about the event and Vision Australia, please visit www.visionaustralia.org/carols or call 1300 84 74 66.