We’re excited to announce that Florence Shanks, a heart kid from Western Australia, has been chosen as one of the 2024 Little Telethon Stars! This wonderful news was recently featured in The Sunday Times and on Channel 7. Telethon, a major event in WA, will take place on October 19th and 20th, and Florence will be a prominent figure throughout the year. Her selection is a proud moment for her, her family, and HeartKids.
Florence is a vibrant four-year-old who has made a remarkable journey. Born with a complex congenital heart condition, Florence has undergone three major surgeries, including two open-heart surgeries as a newborn.
Heartkids is proud of Florence’s selection as one of this year’s Little Telethon Stars. Having provided Florence and her family support since she was a newborn. We will continue to support in her journey as she receives comprehensive care, including cardiology, psychology, ENT, speech and occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and dietetics.
Despite her health challenges, Florence is full of energy, often entertaining her family with creative performances at home. Her mother, Roslyn, proudly shares how Florence has flourished after her most recent surgery, making her the perfect choice to inspire others through the Telethon.
As proud beneficiaries of Telethon, HeartKids have been empowered to offer enhanced support to children and families navigating childhood-onset heart disease (CoHD) in hospitals and throughout cities and regional communities, providing in-person support, resources, and essential services.