A recent International Women’s Day (IWD) breakfast hosted by Burdekin Christian College (BCC) invited over 100 mothers and daughters to feel inspired by guest speakers.
One guest speaker was Judith Arroita, mother of BCC student Lily, who spoke about Lily’s journey with Turner Syndrome.
Turner Syndrome is a condition that affects only females, resulting when one of the X chromosomes is missing or partially missing, where most girls are born with two X chromosomes.
Lily was diagnosed in November 2022 at 12 years of age at which point she started growth hormones.
“Lily was considered quite old to be diagnosed,” Ms Arroita said.
“Usually, it can be picked up at birth.
“As the girls get to puberty age, when they don’t grow, it will often be picked up and that was the case with us.”
Judith spoke to the group hoping to spread the awareness of the little-known condition.
“If they feel something’s not quite right, just keep following it through until you get an answer,” she said.
“Just look out for symptoms and, if you think something’s wrong, go and ask the question, because the earlier they can be diagnosed, the earlier treatment can be started, and other health reasons can be checked.”
BCC Principal Debra Creed said the school has raised almost $300 for Turner Syndrome through its ‘Purple Day’ and selling butterfly broaches, a symbol of the condition.
“It was important to us that students, parents and our staff understand a parent’s perspective and also the challenges that students with Turner Syndrome face on a daily basis,” Ms Creed said.
“Turner Syndrome only affects females, so the IWD breakfast was the perfect opportunity and audience to raise awareness with.”
Judith Sgarbossa of the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc also spoke at the breakfast.
“It was important to us that our girls had the opportunity to contribute to society and demonstrate servant-leader qualities to help make the Burdekin a better place,” Ms Creed said.
“Our Z-Club continues to grow so having Judith attend was a wonderful inspiration that may encourage other students to join this community club and work on social justice issues.”
Ms Creed said the IWD breakfast was an opportunity for the whole school community to get involved in the day.
“Our male students were also involved and presented each of our female teachers with special mementos on behalf of the College,” she said.
“We have so many talented girls at our College so it is important for them to realise that in today’s world they can fulfil their true potential and live their dreams.
“We envisage a future where all our students will feel the freedom to be the best version of themselves and help others lead their best life too.”
For more information, visit www.turnersyndrome.org.au.
Caption: Judith Arroita (centre) and her daughters Shanay (left) and Lily (right). Photo supplied
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