When Milla was just one week old, she was diagnosed with glutaric aciduria type one, a rare genetic disorder affecting only 1 in 100,000 people. By six months old, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Since then, Milla has spent an extraordinary amount of her life—around 60 days a year—at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

But for Milla, her story isn’t about limitations. It’s about boundless creativity, resilience, and joy. 

“I’m just like any other teenage girl who has an obstacle,” says seventeen-year-old Milla through her eye-gaze device. This life-changing innovation tracks her eye movements to allow her to communicate, draw, and even use WhatsApp. “I love to shop, draw, ice skate, and spend time with my family.” 

Milla has undergone numerous surgeries, including hip and spinal procedures, and receives ongoing care from a multidisciplinary team that includes genetic specialists, physiotherapists, and speech therapists. But it’s not just the medical expertise that has made a difference—it’s the unwavering support from everyone at the hospital. 

“From the moment we received her diagnosis, we were thrust into an unfamiliar world of specialists, treatments, and uncertainty,” says Suzan, Milla’s mum. “But we’ve always found solace in the incredible teams at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. They have been our guiding light through the toughest times.” 

“I want to give a huge thank you to all the doctors, therapists, and nurses who have helped me,” Milla says. “From the talented surgeons to the lovely volunteers, I wouldn’t be who I am today without their superhuman help.” 

One breakthrough moment came when a speech therapist introduced Milla to eye-gaze technology at the age of four. This innovative tool allows her to communicate and express herself using her eyes—a discovery Suzan describes as life-changing. 

“The first time Milla wrote something using the eye-gaze technology, I had tears in my eyes,” recalls Suzan. “It was the start of something amazing, and she hasn’t stopped since.” 

Through this technology, Milla has not only connected with friends and family via WhatsApp but also discovered her passion for art. She uses the device to create intricate drawings, turning her creativity into a powerful form of self-expression. For Milla, art is more than just a hobby—it’s a therapeutic outlet and a way to inspire others. 

“I love art because you can do anything you want, and no one can tell you it’s wrong,” says Milla. “When I grow up, I want to pursue a career in graphic design.” 

While Milla can’t communicate verbally, she doesn’t let anything stand in her way and is set on making a difference for kids just like her, reminding them that they can achieve their dreams. 

“I chose to be an ambassador to inspire kids who have a disability that they can do anything they want,” she says. “They just need to believe in themselves.” 

“To anyone having a hard day, just keep powering on,” Milla encourages. “Believe in your heart that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I know that I found it, and if I can find it, you can too.” 

For families like Milla’s, the impact of community support cannot be overstated. Every donation helps fund essential services, groundbreaking technology, and life-changing programs that empower children like Milla to thrive. 

“When you donate, you’re not just supporting a child in the short term,” Suzan explains. “You’re making a long-term impact on their life and the lives of their families. We are forever grateful for the care and compassion that has brought us to where we are today.” 

By donating to Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation today, you can help change the future for kids like Milla.