I had the privilege, while growing up, to travel frequently – my father worked in an industry that offered us opportunities to live abroad and discover other countries and cultures. Whilst living in Aberdeen, Scotland I commenced volunteer work and became primarily involved with disabilities and education. I continued that work when I returned to Australia.

A position became available as a nanny for a 4 year old girl named Kendall Alexandra Agnew. Kendall was born a healthy baby girl. However, at the age of 11 months, Kendall contracted Herpes Encephalitis, which caused severe medical issues, and left Kendall with epilepsy and intellectually and physical disabilities.

I never thought that this amazing little person that I was about to meet would have the impact that she had on my life. Kendall was full of determination, independence and free spirited in a way that we only dream about. She made every day a joy to be lived, she created in me a love that I had never known until we met. We spent 4 years together – with her teaching me compassion, love; educating me in disabilities through the connections I made while working with Kendall. Overcoming physical, mental and psychological barriers and learning new ways to communicate changed me in ways I find hard to describe.

Kendall died on August 2nd 1992 at the age of 8 years. If we had never met I would never have become the person I am today. Kendall allowed me to look beyond myself and truly see my strengths. Himalayan Heart has grown out of my love for Kendall and for children like her.

I deeply thank her family and am indebted to them - Mike, Shan, Kelly and Kimberley- for allowing me to be a part of their lives and Kendall's life experience. I am similarly indebted to Kendall for letting me into her life, for allowing me to get close, and form a bond of unconditional love that I had never known until I met her..... and one that I will never ever forget.