Emma Gordon-Smith - Beaudesert

Emma Gordon-Smith from Beaudesert

Emma is our daughter. She is 15 years old and has been dancing since she was seven. Watching Emma perform ballet, we are always inspired and amazed at the commitment and motivation that she possesses. Her love of being on stage is evident to all, and for us, her parents, comes that satisfaction of knowing she is happy and confident doing what she loves.

Fortunately for Emma, her dance teacher treats her no differently from the other students in the class. This is important as it has allowed Emma to develop her skills, observing and interacting alongside her peers. The other dance students have embraced Emma wholeheartedly, along with her "uniqueness" and that in itself is helping Emma grow into the confident, able person that she is.

Emma puts 100 per cent effort into her ballet lessons. Like any of us, she does have days when she doesn't feel like going or wants to do other things, but her love of ballet always wins out in the end.

As well as performing for her dance academy's annual Christmas concert, Emma has for the past three years performed at the Redland Disability Eisteddfod where she has represented the Beaudesert Special Education Unit.

Rod, my husband, and I are extremely proud of our daughter. We are proud of the way she is overcoming obstacles that come along with having Down syndrome and her willingness to "have a go" at what life offers. We are proud of the way she embraces those around her with love and the close ties she shares with her brothers. She is a very special young lady.

Emma, you are an inspiration to everyone with whom you come in contact.