Gemma

"Hi, I’m Gem and I’m a 19-year-old event management student who lives in Newcastle in NSW.

I’m passionate about music. Ever since attending my first music festival I’ve wanted to become one of the people behind the scenes who bring music to the public and help create memories that will last a lifetime. I also have Cerebral Palsy. Although it can be challenging at times, 12 operations over my lifetime will attest to that, I don’t let Cerebral Palsy define who I am or what I can achieve. I’m determined to stay positive. 

Two years ago I was granted my Starlight Wish to meet Taylor Swift. I was completely blown away by the work that went into every detail of my Starlight Wish and by everything that’s been done just for me. It was just phenomenal. You’d have thought I was the celebrity!

My wish came at an important time in my life. I’d just turned 18 and completed my HSC. The constant surgical procedures I’d been undergoing had only recently finished.

My Starlight Wish represented a turning point in my life. It was an opportunity to reflect on what I had been through, but also to celebrate where I was headed and what I could now achieve. I am so ridiculously grateful to Starlight for such a fabulous and unforgettable experience.

I am so ridiculously grateful to Starlight for my Starlight Wish. It was such a fabulous and unforgettable experience.

Gemma, Starlight Fundraiser

That's why I committed myself to take up the challenge of climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge. I hoped my climb would raise $6,500 for Starlight - that’s the equivalent of granting one Starlight Wish to one of the many kids battling a serious illness.

I took 1,022 steps, which was both physically and mentally challenging for me.

While I can walk, it’s difficult and I’m usually limited to walking relatively short distances.

I want to give back to the organisation that has given me so much. I want to help give another child something to look forward to during one of the most difficult times in their lives."