BREAKING: The first-ever ballerina Supertees have just been distributed at Gosford Hospital, bringing joy and comfort to children undergoing medical treatment. This innovative garment, designed to resemble a costume, aims to uplift young patients and inspire their imaginations during challenging times.
The Supertee was created by Jason Sotiris in response to his daughter’s battle with a rare and aggressive cancer in 2018. Since its inception, the charity has donated over 25,000 garments to children in hospitals across Australia. “The ballerina edition marks our first dance-inspired design, requested by families looking for alternatives to superhero themes,” Sotiris stated.
Each ballerina Supertee includes a tutu, a handwritten card from their ‘biggest fan,’ and an invitation to dance. Designed with functionality in mind, these costumes allow easy access for medical procedures while providing a source of joy. “This is more than a costume; it’s a moment of joy during a very hard time,” Sotiris emphasized.
In a unique partnership, Supertee has collaborated with Rise & Shine Education to help fund and distribute these garments. Parents and caregivers can also access a special QR code included in each pack, linking to a personal message from Jade Wood, a former senior artist with The Australian Ballet. Wood invites children to experience a specially created dance moment that transforms hospital beds into stages.
“I am inviting families to be part of the moment where a hospital bed becomes a stage, and a child’s imagination takes over,” Wood shared. “As a dancer, I’ve seen firsthand how movement can uplift and inspire. I’m incredibly proud to be part of a project that gives children a reason to smile and move, even from a hospital bed.”
This initiative not only provides comfort but also serves as a beacon of hope for families facing significant challenges. The ballerina Supertee represents a vital step in reimagining hospital experiences for children, ensuring that they can maintain a sense of normalcy and joy.
For those who wish to support this impactful rollout, further information is available at www.supertee.org.au. Stay tuned for updates on how this initiative continues to evolve and touch the lives of children across the nation.
