Mum on a mission

Children’s Tumour Foundation
Courageous. Fierce. Admirable.

Donna Roberts is a mum on a mission.

She is dedicated to reducing the stigma about the genetic disorder neurofibromatosis, which causes tumours to grow on nerve cells.

Her heart was broken when her daughter, who has the disorder, was bullied for her appearance.

After discovering the Children’s Tumour Foundation, which supports families with the condition, she offered to be their spokesperson and manage fundraising events in Perth.

Courageous and fearless, Donna began by connecting families through online support groups and in her local area.

The events she organises have helped bridge the gap between neurofibromatosis families and the broader community.

She is a force to be reckoned with and has helped people with neurofibromatosis feel a sense of belonging in the community.

“I volunteer for the Children’s Tumour Foundation and advocate for awareness of neurofibromatosis and the general celebration of difference. I want my daughter and other sufferers to live in a world that is accepting, kind and inclusive,” says Donna, who is now the peer leader and event manager in Fremantle.

“The events I bring to our area are so important when it comes to eliminating stigma and stereotypes of visible differences.”

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. The Children’s Tumour Foundation will use its grant to run a camp for kids with neurofibromatosis as well as their siblings.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here