WHEN tiny Beatrix “Bea” Lambert arrived in December 2023, she weighed just 887 grams.
Born at only 26 weeks and diagnosed with severe cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, microcephaly, cortical visual impairment, and severe dysphagia, Bea has faced more challenges than most will ever know.
Despite the enormous hurdles, she is a bright, determined little girl who loves to laugh.
Each day she works hard to achieve the smallest milestones, such as grasping objects, sitting, or swallowing, with the help of intensive daily therapies aimed at improving her mobility, flexibility, and muscle control.
Parents Nick and Lucy Lambert are much-loved local teachers.
Nick works at St Augustine’s Primary and Lucy, at Toormina High School.
Between lesson plans and classrooms, they share the demanding care of their only child, who spent her first six months in Sydney hospitals and has already undergone three surgeries, with another scheduled later this year.
The couple’s strength and love have inspired an extraordinary outpouring of community support.
Friends, colleagues, and families across the Coffs Coast have rallied around them, raising more than $52,000 of a $60,000 goal through a GoFundMe campaign, to help Bea get the equipment and therapy she needs.
Friend and campaign organiser Kelly O’Carroll said she felt privileged to help.
“Nick and Lucy are doing an incredible job caring for Bea while still working as teachers, but they’re utterly exhausted,” she said.
“They’re wonderful people, and the huge community response is a testament to that.
“Thanks to everyone’s generosity, Bea’s next intensive therapy is now booked for January – such a wonderful milestone to have in sight.”
Funds raised will help the family purchase a larger vehicle to fit Bea’s specialised seat and mobility gear, a hospital-grade electric bed with a pressure-relieving mattress, and a course of VitalStim therapy to strengthen her ability to swallow safely.
Lucy said she and Nick have been overwhelmed by the love shown to them.
“We’re truly grateful for the community’s generosity. It’s been beautiful,” she said.
“The support means Bea can access therapy early to give her the best chance to thrive.”
That generosity shone brightly during “Blue for Bea Day” on Friday 31 October, when students at St Augustine’s wore blue in Bea’s honour and the Big Banana glowed blue that night to match.
Doctors have told the family that the first four years of life are crucial for Bea’s development.
Every bit of support helps give her the best possible start.
“We’re focusing all our energy on Bea’s wellbeing and development”, said Lucy.
“And we couldn’t do it without this amazing community.”
To support the family, visit the GoFundMe page “Help Beatrix Lambert Thrive”.
By Leigh WATSON
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