Mum’s miracle drive for daughter earns Pride of Australia nomination

MELITA Misoni, like any loving mother, would do anything to help her children

MELITA Misoni, like any loving mother, would do anything to help her children.

That’s why last year, when she turned 40, the Stanhope Gardens mother of three turned her birthday into a fundraiser for Kids Rehab at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead – the centre that twice saved her daughter Tesia’s life.

“Tesia has an acquired brain injury from an Atrievenous Malformation, which is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, bypassing the capillary system,” Ms Misoni told The Daily Telegraph.

“The AVM was resected and Tesia has a clip in place, so in lieu of a massive 40th birthday celebration in March 2014, I decided to organise a charity event to raise much-needed funds for Kids Rehab.

“What started off as an ambitious idea quickly escalated and became a reality as many friends, family and the community rallied behind me to help launch ‘March into Miracles’.

“My inspiration and steely determination to drive the charity event to success, was for my daughter.”

The event raised $37,000, and March Into Miracles supporters have since raised $200,000 in total – a result instrumental in helping the hospital tend to patients like Tesia, and a result earning Ms Misoni a deserved nomination in this year’s Pride of Australia Medal in the Community Spirit category.

Supported by ClubsNSW, the awards honour ordinary Aussies doing incredible things over 10 categories, with Ms Misoni emotional over her recognition.

“Both Tesia and I feel like singing, dancing and celebrating!” the 41-year-old said.

“We are absolutely thrilled and honoured for this wonderful recognition.

“The community plays an integral role in the upbringing of families and with the right guidance amazing things can be achieved!

“We started this cause to help kids and families and when you see someone in pain you instinctively want to reach out and help them - we want to take some of the pain away from others who struggle on a daily basis.

“If we can help or inspire someone else or another family then perhaps they too will be motivated to help others – and so the cycle of life continues as we pay it forward.

“You never actually think of it as an important contribution when it comes from the heart – it’s a choice.”

The March Into Miracles Foundation is holding a fundraiser on September 12 at the Castle Hill RSL Club. To buy tickets or donate, visit www.marchintomiracles.com.au

To nominate someone you know for a Pride of Australia Medal, visit dailytelegraph.com.au/prideofaustralia