By BRIDGET COOK
LINDA Willson has always dreamed of going to a ball.
Now at the age of 88, that dream will come true this year for Ms Willson and many others, thanks to a number of local organisations coming together to make it possible.
The Rotary Club of Casey, disability services across the region, the City of Casey and local businesses are busy planning a presentation ball for people with a disability.
The ball aims to gives those who have never had the opportunity to do their debutante or be presented to society a chance to do just that.
And there are no cutting corners with this ball, with participants getting sponsored for dance rehearsal, formal attire, hair and make-up and even a limousine ride to the venue on the night.
For Ms Willson, who is oldest out of the 27 participants signed up so far, it is a dream come true.
Ms Willson was born with cerebral palsy and is now confined to a wheelchair, but that doesn’t stop her from carving it up at rehearsal as she completes the dance moves to the best of her ability.
Her carer Yvonne Williams, who is partnering Ms Willson for the ball, said it had brought so much joy to her life.
“Linda has had a pretty tough life, so this is just so special for her,” Ms Williams said.
“She has always talked about wanting to go to a ball and this is making it possible,” she said.
“It has been a personal goal of hers to go to a ball.
“As you can see at rehearsal, she takes great pride in her appearance and loves getting dressed up with her earing and jewels on,” Ms Williams said.
“So she is very excited about getting all dolled up on the night as well.”
Ms Williams said when she returned to her residence after dance rehearsals, she was quick to tell everyone all about it.
“She is always keen to tell everyone all about the dancing, what she was doing and how we got the moves right on the day,” Ms Williams said.
“You can just see how much excitement it brings her.
“It’s also been so great for me to be involved and seeing her happiness.
“Linda is achieving something she’s wanted to do for quite a while.
“At her age, you wouldn’t think she’d be able to make it a reality.
“It gives her a real sense of worth.”
For more on The Rotary Club Casey Presentation Ball, turn to page 14.
