Kris

Kris had his first day of Year 12 yesterday.  A big day for any kid.  He is really smart and quick witted and we know he will do well this year.  He is a “tough cookie” our Kris, and he consistently works hard against the odds, that are sometimes stacked up against him.  See although he is quite academic and achieves good results in the classroom, Kris’s body can sometimes make the going hard work.  Kris has Cerebral Palsy - moderate to severe Spastic Diplegia.  This results in him having limited mobility and poor balance.  He walks with two single sticks or uses a wheelchair for long distances.  It is difficult for us able bodied people to imagine getting from classroom to classroom under those conditions, and still have the energy for learning.

Kris almost needs a gold watch for his time spent with us at the Heartwell Foundation.  This is his 10th year of participation!  That even surprises me as I write it.  He started with us when he was a cute little nine year old.  Although he was small and seemingly frail, even back then you got a sense of his determination and drive to be successful at all things.  Over the years we have watched him grow tall and strong (and noticed last year he started to shave!)

Kris in full flight,
chasing down a ball.

An avid cricket follower Kris was here when a few years ago Shane Warne visited the Heartwell Foundation.  There was no way we could keep him away from that little opportunity.  Another happy memory is of Kris last year participating in his school cross country event.  In a display of absolute grit and courage he walked about 500 metres to the finish line.  What a champ!

Good luck at school this year Kris, you are a legend.



Kris (far left) meets Shane Warne along with some other Heartwell Foundation crew.