If you want to meet a real-life icon, you need look no further than local solicitor Lisa Aitken. The mum-of-three just hit an amazing milestone by helping raise $1 million for a host of local charities over the past 19 years.
A million dollars! I think I have achieved something if I whip up a roast dinner on a Sunday night. Some people are truly amazing. And Lisa is one of them – always full of grace and humility.
Nearly two decades ago, Lisa was juggling a brood of young babies and a new law firm, but she still found time to raise money to help others.
In 2007, her nephew nearly died and it kickstarted her passion to raise money for those who need it most.
Since then, there have been countless golf days, raffles and functions – all convincing locals to part with their cash.
Lisa says: “We only hold the Giggle Ball every few years. This is our sixth one. Each time, we pick a different charity: Camp Quality, Montrose Therapy and Respite Services, Sunshine Butterflies, Bloomhill Cancer Care – and this year, SunnyKids, where the ball raised $150K.”
SunnyKids helps families who leave domestic violence situations with not much more than the clothing on their backs.
I interviewed local mum Jill, a brave woman who fled her home at dawn to escape 13 years of horrible abuse from her now ex-partner.
The mum of two young kids survived physical abuse, sexual abuse and constant mind games that separated her from her friends, family and freedom.
Her ex had cameras filming 24 hours a day, in her own home. Jill was not allowed to buy a cup of coffee without permission and was only allowed to leave the house for medical appointments for her two autistic kids. Jill scaled her home fence in the dark with one baby strapped to her chest and one toddler clinging to her leg.
Today, Jill describes her life as one of being content. Her days are filled with simple pleasures. Most of us would be broken by just how bad her abuse was, but Jill feels as if she has won the lottery because she is safe and free.
She thanks SunnyKids for hiding her in a refuge and helping with legal advice.
Thanks to Lisa’s tireless work, more families will now be helped.
Sami Muirhead is a radio announcer, blogger and commentator, wife and mum of three.
