Two young sisters from New South Wales, Australia, are appealing for community assistance to complete a UV-safe backyard sanctuary before Christmas. Twelve-year-old Amielle Walker and her seven-year-old sister Taya Walker are both affected by xeroderma pigmentosum, a rare genetic condition that makes exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light dangerous. Even a brief moment in sunlight can severely burn their skin and damage their eyes, forcing them to remain indoors for most of their lives.
Their mother, Yvette Walker, expressed the challenges the girls face daily, stating, “It’s just unfathomable, really. Basically, every part of life is harder for them.” With no available treatment or cure, the family is determined to create a safe outdoor environment for the girls. The sanctuary will feature blinds, a specially designed roof, and real grass, allowing them to enjoy outdoor play without the constant worry of UV exposure.
“We just want to give them a normal childhood that any other child would experience,” said their father, Nick Walker. The sanctuary aims to provide Amielle and Taya with opportunities for fun and social interaction, something they have long been deprived of due to their condition. “It’s going to be really fun. We’ll get to go out with our friends. It’s going to be life-changing,” Amielle shared enthusiastically. Taya added, “Instead of just staying inside and playing inside and just being bored inside, we can actually go outside and play.”
The family has been working on this project for four summer seasons, but financial constraints have hindered their progress. Despite their efforts, the sanctuary remains incomplete, prompting them to seek help from the community. “Any support financially that people will be willing to give us to help us make this dream a reality,” Nick said.
To learn more about their project and contribute, interested individuals can visit the family’s GoFundMe page, where they share their journey and the urgency of completing the sanctuary in time for Christmas. With the festive season approaching, the Walkers hope to create a safe haven that allows their daughters to experience the joys of childhood outside their home.
