Dance in her heart

A YOUNG woman who overcame a major health problem at birth aspires to become a world champion Highland dancer.
Endeavour Hills resident Grace Gillet was born with transposition of the great arteries- a serious heart condition.
Fifteen years later, Grace refuses to let her heart condition stand in the way of reaching her goals as she plans to compete at the Highland World Championships in Scotland in August.
She is now looking for community sponsorship to help her achieve her dreams.
“I have been Highland dancing since I was three. It’s fun and it’s different. I dance three days a week at Speyside Dance Studio in Cranbourne and practice every day at home,” she said.
“I want to make a bigger name for myself. I want to be known.”
Ms Gillet said her daughter continued to have regular heart checks with a cardiologist, but was thrilled she had overcome the worst.
“She still has a few health problems but she just powers on. Dancing seems to keep her healthy,” she said.
“I know the energy she puts into her dancing and I think it is terrific for her to have goals and something to look forward to.”
Ms Gillet, who is the single carer for Grace and her four siblings, said she would love to send her daughter to the event, but the expenses, which would total about $4000, could be an obstacle.
She said it could be the last chance her daughter got to make the international competition, as she would be concentrating more on her studies at St John Regional College in Dandenong.
Grace agreed.
“I will be going into VCE soon so I will have to focus on that,” she said.
“But I will never stop dancing.”
Anyone wanting to help Grace achieve her dream of competing in Scotland can phone Ms Gillet on 0422 396 127. Grace is also available to do dance displays for a small fee.