Little Maddie Paterno has not led an easy life suffering from cerebral palsy. Her family reached out to local associations and St George Leagues Club led the way to help bring a much deserved smile to the little girls face.

St George Leagues Club has granted the wish of one little girl and made life a lot easier for her family thanks to a $40,000 donation. The Paterno family had struggled to transport little Maddie, 12, in their old beaten up van. Maddie has cerebral palsy affecting all four limbs and uses a power wheelchair to get around her school.

St George Leagues Club combined with Mortdale RSL Club, Riverwood Legion Club, Club Central Hurstville and St George Masonic Club to purchase a specifically modified Mercedes Vito. Maddie’s mum Lorene said the support of the Leagues Club was totally “overwhelming”. “We’ve had a long association with the Club and it’s wonderful to know that they do give back,” Lorene says. “It definitely has lifted her spirits and going on to high school next year it will be much better for her.”

St George Leagues Club donated $20,000 to the cause which includes green slip and stamp duty, 12 months comprehensive insurance and NRMA roadside assist, and a $1,000 petrol voucher. The modified car now has a built-in ramp to allow Maddie easy access to the
vehicle and retractable floor restraints with lap strap seatbelt for her wheelchair. “We were in a van that was on its last legs,” Lorene says. “The mechanic said get rid of it because it was going to cost too much to fix again.”

Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability affecting Australian children. One in 400 babies is diagnosed with cerebral palsy. It is a permanent condition affecting movement.

St George Leagues Club Chairman Warren Lockwood said it was great to be able to give back to the community. “When you see a gathering like this where you meet the family it really touches your heart,” Mr Lockwood says. “We managed to get some funding for some much needed transport for the family. It’s very touching and very rewarding.”

To coincide with the St George Leagues Club generous donation Mortdale RSL Club donated $6,000, Riverwood Legion Club $5,000, Club Central Hurstville $5,000 and St George Masonic Club $4,000.

By Michael Carayannis