Samantha’s walking on starshine toward her debut

Kim Waters
As a child Geelong’s Samantha Whittaker was unsure whether she would ever walk.
But at 24 years of age she has overcome disability to achieve her dream of wearing a princess dress and swirling around a dance floor in a presentation ball.
Samantha will join a host of other people with disabilities when they make their social debut at community service organisation Karingal’s Starry Starry Night in May.
Samantha’s mother, Wendy Whittaker, said the ball was shaping up as “very emotional” for her family.
“When Sam was born the doctor’s couldn’t really diagnose her but they did say that she might not be able to walk or talk,” Mrs Whittaker said.
“She loves dressing up and dancing and we really enjoy seeing her have a good time.
“Sam never gets to go out like other girls her age, so this will be a special night for her.”
Samantha’s 30-year-old brother, Travis Whittaker, will be her partner.
“The whole experience has been a bit of an eye-opener for me,” he said.
“At dance practice I look around and see all the kids – they’re so positive and happy and it’s such a great thing. Their dedication and sense of humour is amazing to me.”
Mr Whittaker described the dance classes as “enjoyable” and “a bit of a laugh”.
But he understood the importance of the ball to his sister.
“It’s something really significant in her life; a picture that will go up on the wall and a night that will be remembered forever.”
Karingal’s Robyn Bradshaw urged the community to help make Starry Starry Night an evening to remember for its special participants.
Tickets were available for $70 by phoning 5241 7091 or emailing mfarrell@karingal.org.au, she said.
The Independent is a sponsor of Starry Starry Night.