Matt in cruise control

By Sarah Thompson
FOR 10-year-old Belgrave resident Matthew Thiele, the Starlight Children’s Foundation plays an important role in his everyday life.
That is why he and his family are urging residents to get behind the organisation that helps thousands of sick children every year.
Last year, Matthew, who was severely burnt in an accident when he was three years old, was treated to an eight-day cruise around Queensland for himself and his family, and the joy the trip brought to him is clear almost a year on.
“I always wanted to sleep on a boat,” the energetic grade-five student said.
Matthew’s mother, Lisa Thiele, said the whole trip was fantastic, and thanked the Starlight Foundation for thinking of every little thing to make Matthew’s experience as enjoyable as possible.
“Just remembering what happened on the cruise mean a lot to him,” Mrs Thiele said.
“It’s makes a huge difference to see him have something to look forward to,” she said.
Matthew says that the Starlight Foundation is very important because it helps not only sick children but also their families.
“It is really important because if they are parents and families it is good for them to help others and sick kids,” he said.
Melissa Hay, from the Starlight Children’s Foundation Brand and Communications department, believes Matthew is an inspiration, and hopes that residents will support Star Day.
“Starlight gives back the everyday joys of childhood that often take a back seat to the stress of treatment and hospitalisation.
“To Matthew, that joy was having his wish to go on a cruise ship with his family granted.
“The staff on the cruise were inspired by Matthew’s courage and determination and helped make Matthew have a truly unforgettable time,” she said.
Starlight chief executive Jill Weekes hopes to bring Starlight to more sick children and asks residents to get behind the day, which benefits sick children from across Australia.
“Star Day is the only event of the year where we reach out to the public for support. Everyone can help.
“No donation is too small anything people can give will help to bring some joy to these special children,” she said.
For further information, visit www.starday.org.au or call 1300 727 827.