Telethon: How Down Syndrome WA Helped 'Besties' Maddie and Daisy Find Friendship for Life
Madeleine and Daisy Currie, both 12 years old, have a bond that goes far beyond simple friendship. "We're besties," they proudly declare with beaming smiles, correcting anyone who might label them otherwise. Their unshakeable connection was forged through years of shared experiences, from imaginative play and watching KPop Demon Hunters to singing pop songs and debating their favorite Disney princesses.
A Friendship Forged from Infancy
Maddie's parents, Jaime and Richard Hayes, met Daisy's mother, Anna Currie, at a Down Syndrome WA playgroup when the girls were just months old. They sought connection and support, hoping the friendships formed would benefit their daughters in the future. "We're like extended family now," Jaime says, reflecting on the deep ties that have developed over more than a decade.
Down Syndrome WA aims to spark such connections through its various programs, playgroups, and social events, which serve as a vital support network for families. Jaime notes that Maddie wasn't hitting milestones at the same pace as her neurotypical twin sister, Issy, making it invaluable to be among other parents whose children were at similar stages. "It was good to be among other parents who understood some of the concerns and challenges," she explains.
Navigating Challenges Together
The girls have grown up side by side, supporting each other through different life stages. They recently started high school together earlier this year, and their reliance on one another was evident when Daisy underwent spinal surgery for scoliosis in August last year. Maddie was there to assist with physical tasks when Daisy returned to school after missing nearly an entire term, showcasing their unwavering support.
Richard adds that Down Syndrome WA events allowed them to see older children and adults with Down syndrome, providing reassurance about the future. "Seeing what the future might look like was reassuring," he says. While Anna, a single parent, knew Daisy was likely to be born with Down syndrome, Jaime and Richard only discovered Maddie had the genetic condition after her birth. Both families benefited from DSWA's support, with prenatal assistance for Anna and post-birth guidance for Jaime and Richard.
The Role of Telethon Funding
Down Syndrome WA, which has received Telethon funding for 10 years, offers practical help such as navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme, recommending treatments, therapists, and schools. "Having that support was phenomenal because it can all be quite overwhelming in the beginning," Anna says. The organization's programs have guided Maddie and Daisy from playgroup and the primary-aged Kids Club to the aptly named Friends For Life program. Eventually, they will transition to the adult group, Aim High, which focuses on life skills and fostering independence.
Their parents find comfort in knowing the girls will have each other to rely on as they approach adulthood. "It means a lot that, as they grow and mature, they are doing it together and have each other to lean on," Richard emphasizes. The families cannot speak highly enough of the support from DSWA and the networks forged through the organization.
Life-Changing Impact
Richard highlights the importance of Telethon funding, stating, "The regular person might just see it as a donation, but the benefits on the other side can be life-changing." This funding enables Down Syndrome WA to continue its vital work, creating lifelong friendships and support systems that transform lives for families like Maddie and Daisy's.
