Right: Olympic champion Debbie FlintoffKing recently made a special presentation to Tooradin Primary School student Kiana Pinn.By Rebecca Fraser
OLYMPIC gold medallist Debbie FlintoffKing visited Tooradin Primary School on Tuesday, 19 July to make a very special and belated presentation.
The former athlete presented visually impaired grade three student Kiana Pinn with the Lion’s Children of Courage award.
Kiana suffers a rare condition called PHPV – Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous – and has limited vision.
She missed the official presentation ceremony in March, so the Lion’s Club of Balla Balla decided to bring the award to her.
The award was introduced by Peninsula Lions clubs five years ago to recognise children with special needs who have shown courage in the face of adversity.
Kiana is totally blind in her right eye and only has about 10 percent vision in her left.
She has already endured 56 operations on her eyes and more medical procedures are still needed.
Kiana also suffers from painful glaucoma, which can cause severe headaches and eye pain and can only see blurred colours depending on the background colour.
Norma Barnard, of Frankston/Bayside Lions Club spoke at the presentation ceremony and said despite Kiana’s rare condition she still maintained a delightful sense of humour, and a happygolucky approach to life.
“She is a willing student who will have a go at everything and needs little encouragement to participate.
“Recently she attended a twoday school camp and despite the additional handicap of a broken arm, was able and willing to fully experience activities such as the giant swing, flying fox, archery and canoeing.
“Kiana is a terrific girl and she deserves the recognition granted by the Children of Courage Awards,” she said.
The awards also recognise children who, without regard for personal safety, have helped keep someone alive or have given assistance in an accident.
Children who have also overcome personal hardship and/or disadvantage to achieve a high degree of sporting prowess are also recognised.
