WHEN tears well in the eyes of little Skye Brady, her mother Maria is there to offer comfort.
It may simply be a loving and affectionate hug, or to provide words of wisdom.
More often than not, it’s enough for the tears to dry up and bring back the smile that every child deserves to wear.
Eight-year-old Skye suffers from Crouzon syndrome, a craniofacial disease that results in abnormal growth of the skull and upper face.
Born with the condition, Skye has already undergone four reconstructive operations and still has many to come.
“She is strong, but sometimes she gets fed up with going to hospital,” Ms Brady says.
Although the condition has been difficult and at times traumatic for Skye and her family, they are grateful for the treatment they have received at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH).
“I tell Skye how lucky she is,” Ms Brady says.
“I always try to encourage her and say, ‘If you work hard and be strong, you’ll be okay in life’.
“When she is down I explain to her that she was born with the condition and people should accept her for who she is.”
RCH surgeon Dr Andrew Greensmith is happy with Skye’s progress so far but knows they are only part way through a long and at times difficult journey.
Skye is in Year 3 at Bethany Catholic Primary School, where Ms Brady says she has been well supported by teachers and friends.
“She loves school,” she says.
Despite her condition, Skye is making the most of life.
A keen tap dancer, she also enjoys music and swimming.
“She likes all the things that little girls like,” Ms Brady says.
To donate to the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal, phone 9292 1166 or go to the website www.goodfridayappeal.com.au.
