Stories of Love Compassion and Inspiration
While remembering all the children we had the privilege to support who bravely faced and tragically lost their biggest battles, we honour those who, despite immense challenges, left a lasting impact and profound influence on our mission and Why we chose to do what we do.
Wattle Cottage, our Respite and Wellness Centre in Springwood, South of Brisbane, is named in tribute to two very brave children, Carmella Evans and Joey Cecil. Their legacies of courage, resilience, and endless love inspire and drive positive change, ensuring their memories live on in the hearts of those who accompanied them on their tough journeys. This dedication also stands in solidarity and with enormous respect for their families.
Even after their passing, these children leave behind a powerful legacy of love, compassion, and resilience. Their memories continue to inspire acts of kindness, fundraising efforts for research, and support for other families facing similar challenges. These children and the strength of their families inspired us to create additional support services and resources for others, reminding us to live with gratitude, empathy, and compassion.
We have the kind permission of both their families to share these stories, and we thank them for their courage and generosity in allowing us to honour their children's legacies. Your support helps us honour their legacies and continue providing essential services to families in need. Thank you for being part of this journey.
Joey
We met beautiful Joey on 26th of January 2022. Joey was born with a rare metabolic condition called Peroxisomal Disorder. His family spent most of his first year of life at Queensland Children's Hospital.
Bringing Joey home was a “Whatever it takes” collaborative effort involving an amazing Paediatric Palliative Care Support Team at Queensland Children’s Hospital, numerous medical specialists, allied health professionals and his strong and determined parents, Erin and Matt.
Joey required around-the-clock care and hi-tech equipment. His home resembled a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, filled with equipment and continuous monitoring. Despite the intense caregiving routine, there were also countless moments of joy, endless love, and family togetherness.
Together we celebrated each day, counted each week of staying out of the hospital and cherishing each moment. “Whatever it Takes “was the family motto we all adopted, the resilience and positive outlook of the family unit inspired everyone involved.
Joey lost his battle on August 8, 2022. At his Celebration of Life, everyone received a tube of Golden Wattle to plant in his memory. Joye’s favourite colour is yellow, hence you will find lots of origami yellow hearts on our website and yellow became our proud brand colour.
Carmella
Carmella was born on January 6, 1997, and was diagnosed with Cockayne Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. Her younger sister Hannah was also born with the same condition.
The original Carmella’s House Charity logo features two hearts, symbolising the sisters. Some Well & Able customers might recognise Carmella’s House and the Medica Shoes brand of orthopaedic footwear, with two hearts stitched to the Velcro straps and designed in dedication to Carmella and Hannah.
Galia, our co-founder, was closely involved in coordinating home care and respite for both girls in the UK for many years. Carmella's journey deeply influenced on Galia's passion for paediatric complex and palliative care.
Carmella lost her battle on Valentine’s Day 2010, surrounded by family, holding hands tight with her sister Hannah and embraced with love by her mother Nida.
