Springvale resident Alex Litsoudis (left) and Frankston friend Jean-Marie Cadby have overcome the challenges of their disabilities, with help from a variety of organisations, to become participants in the Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony.By Shaun Inguanzo
A DISABLED Springvale resident is over the moon after learning he will be participating in the Commonwealth Games closing ceremony.
The announcement is a dream come true for Alex Litsoudis and Frankston-based friend Jean-Marie Cadby, who will both take part in the event at the end of March.
Alex can not divulge the details of the ceremony to the public, but said he was rapt to be taking part.
“I can say this is the greatest thing to ever happen in my life and I thank everyone who has helped me and my carer,” he said.
Alex’s mild disability makes it difficult for him to coordinate his movement and he requires a carer.
However, in the true spirit of the Games, Alex has leapt his hurdles and been busy rehearsing for the closing ceremony.
“We have been rehearsing every week and last week I went to the MCG for a rehearsal,” he said.
The opportunity came after Greater Dandenong and Frankston councils, in liaison with the Department of Human Services, Leisure Link Up, Fusion Theatre and the Brotherhood of St Laurence, organised for Alex and Jean-Marie to be part of the Commonwealth Games.
City of Greater Dandenong disability services manager Mary Rydberg said the work to get Alex and Jean-Marie to the Games was intense.
“People don’t realise the time and effort spent behind the scenes to make such opportunities possible and we are all delighted that Alex has been given this incredible chance,” she said.
