Students and staff at St Mary’s College recently came together to mark CDG Awareness Day, shining a light on Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation and celebrating inclusion within our college community. While CDG Awareness Day is officially recognised on Saturday 16th May, our College held its celebrations a day earlier, on Friday 15th May, in collaboration with Kelsie’s family. All Year 5 students were invited to wear green free dress to raise awareness and come together and support Kelsie.
At lunchtime, the grassed area outside the Year 5 classrooms transformed into a vibrant hub of activity. Students participated in a range of engaging and creative experiences designed to promote awareness and understanding. Highlights included a chalk handprint chain, where students traced their hands along the footpath to symbolise unity, as well as colouring activities and word searches focused on the theme of inclusion. Face painting added a splash of colour to the day, while interactive games such as bean bag toss, UNO, Jenga and Connect Four encouraged participation and fun.
Our Year Six Student Representative Council (SRC) played an important role in spreading the message, promoting the event within classrooms and encouraging fellow students to get involved. We are extremely grateful to our incredible staff, particularly in Year Five and Jarrayirr Buru led by Ms Jane & Miss Pip.
A particularly special contribution came from Kelsie’s Year 5 Jarrbu class, who created a collaborative banner to commemorate the occasion. The class also shared jelly cups and took part in a Kahoot quiz, combining learning with celebration in an engaging way.
The celebrations were a joyful and meaningful experience, helping to raise awareness of CDG while also highlighting the importance of embracing differences. Through activities like these, our College continues to foster a culture of inclusion, empathy and community spirit, ensuring every student, family and staff member feels seen, valued and supported.
In addition to our college-based activities, families are also being encouraged to take part in the “MAY-tivation” fundraising initiative in support of the Saba Rose Button Foundation. Throughout the month of May, families can register to “move” in any way they choose – whether it be walking, running, dancing or playing – with prizes on offer for participants. The initiative aims to raise both awareness and vital funds for CDG research and support, while bringing families together in a fun and meaningful way.
