In April, several of our families, supported by Sunflower volunteers, took part in a memorable break away at Calvert Lakes Disability Activity Centre.
The children’s smiles, laughter, and sense of joy were unmistakable. Less visible were the challenges many of them face every day, brain tumours, serious heart conditions, and recent or upcoming surgeries. For many families, daily life is shaped by hospital appointments, medication, and the constant reality of living with limitations.
Activities built around what children can do
Children took on activities they’re so often told are out of reach. Zip wires, high ropes, catamaran sailing, canoeing, bushcraft and more, with activities adapted so everyone could take part.
For some, it was the first time leaving the ground on a zip wire, building the courage to take that leap and then wanting to do it all over again. For others, it was time out on the water. Sally, mum to Olivia, shared how “we had an absolutely wonderful day sailing… it was beautiful,” while another described how their child “grabbed every opportunity with both hands and smashed it.”
Evie's story
Evie’s experience captured this perfectly. After being told she is now living with not one but two brain tumours, so many opportunities have been taken away. At home, even simple things like swimming lessons are no longer possible. But here, she took part in everything, zip lining, sailing, climbing, swinging, exploring and, as her mum, Claire shared, “she grabbed every opportunity with both hands and smashed it.” Seeing her smiling through every single adventure meant everything.
Confidence, courage and unexpected moments
There were moments high up in the trees, quieter moments learning bushcraft skills, and simple joys like toasting marshmallows, swimming, and spending time together. Again and again, children pushed past their own expectations. Reggie’s family described watching their child take part in things they “never thought possible” as “emotional and unforgettable,” as their confidence grew day by day.
Feeling included, feeling understood
For some families, the impact ran even deeper. After often feeling left out, Michelle shared that “for once, he felt like he truly belonged,” something they said they would never forget. Leonie’s mum Vicky spoke about how much the time away meant following difficult news, saying they “needed that time more than anything.”
There were also moments of pride, connection, and friendship. Families supported each other, laughed together, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Sally summed it up simply: “Thank you will never be enough.”
The impact of that kind of time is hard to put into words, but it shows in the confidence, the laughter, and the memories created.
More than a break away
This wasn’t just a break away. It was a chance for children to feel included, to build confidence, and to experience things many had been excluded from before. It was a chance for families to feel supported, understood, and not alone.
To everyone who supports us, whether you donate, fundraise, volunteer or simply share what we do, thank you. Experiences like this only happen because of you.
And this is just the beginning.
What's coming next
Next month, we will be welcoming even more families to experience something like this. More opportunities, more memories, and more moments where children are reminded of what they can do.
Because every child deserves that chance.
