On Saturday 22nd December in conjunction with the Dainere’s Rainbow Christmas Wonderland Lights Display, there was a special gathering of the 2018 Myer Christmas Bear ‘Anthony’ and his owners.
A downpour of rain just prior to the event was followed by the most magnificent and rather poignant rainbow that arched across the early evening sky and then a cool but chilly night.
Many from the Canberra Community joined this splendiferous event holding their treasured ‘Anthony Bear’, knowing that they were creating a beacon of light and hope this Christmas for children diagnosed with paediatric brain tumours.
The meaning and significance of Anthony was shared as well as the true spirit of Christmas with smiles, new friendships, a greater knowledge and awareness, the gift of giving and fabulous fun had. This was demonstrated by 6 year old James who decorated a Christmas bauble at the craft table and then gifted this to Mrs Claus, much to her delight.
The evening had the incredible MollyCoddle Parties applying the most fabulous glittering Christmas Tattoos to a line of excited children, the extraordinary Mrs Claus greeting guests with such warmth and taking orders to pass back to Santa, a stall of beautiful gifts, some big winners on the lucky numbers, Christmas Craft Activities for the children and adults, dazzling glow sticks, a candy cane or two and the brightly shining Christmas Lights to delight all.
BACKGROUND
In a historic; first time ever tribute to an individual, Myer named their 2018 Christmas Bear as a tribute and honour to the inspiring Canberra Local, Dainere Anthoney, after hearing her heart-warming story of strength, optimism and her continued and selfless drive to support other children battling paediatric brain cancer which tragically took her young life in 2013.
Dainere was also an avid Myer Christmas Bear collector; having received one from Santa Claus every year from birth; her favourite was Theodore who supported her throughout her illness and rests with her today.Dainere’s story and her love of the Myer Christmas Bears re-enforced that for many; both young and old that the Myer Christmas Bear is far more than just a bear.
Dainere’s family; Stephen, Yvonne, Nalani and Jarrett and their small team of volunteers with enormous hearts, passion and enthusiasm who form the Dainere’s Rainbow Committee continue Dainere’s legacy and her tireless paediatric brain tumour advocacy and work of elevating awareness and raising funds supporting the work of Associate Professor David Ziegler at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick in developing and testing new and innovative treatments for children with brain tumours.
Paediatric Brain Cancer kills more children than any other disease in Australia; taking the lives of a classroom of children each year.
The Anthony Bear is available to purchase from all Myer stores nationally.
Photo thanks to Katrina Burgers Photography
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