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2021 Little Telethon Stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas steal show as pair unite for fundraising extravaganza

Charlotte EltonThe West Australian
Little Telethon stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas with Oliver's brother and parents George and Amelia, as well as Lucy's parents Nic and Emma.
Camera IconLittle Telethon stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas with Oliver's brother and parents George and Amelia, as well as Lucy's parents Nic and Emma. Credit: Kelsey Reid/The West Australian

Perth’s biggest stars united to raise money for Telethon last night — but it was the littlest stars that stole the show.

Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas — the 2021 Little Telethon Stars — cut a dashing pair as they prepared for the annual fundraising extravaganza.

After weeks of hard work, eight year-old Lucy said she was “really excited” for the event.

Little Telethon stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas behind the scenes as they prepare for the Telethon ball and broadcast.
Camera IconLittle Telethon stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas behind the scenes as they prepare for the Telethon ball and broadcast. Credit: Kelsey Reid/The West Australian

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“I’ve always wanted to do this and now it’s finally happening!” she enthused. “We’ve got a big night tonight ... please donate to Telethon everyone!”

According to her mum Emma, the bubbly little girl wasn’t nervous at all. “She’s cool as a cucumber, she’s just loving it,” she said.

Lucy knows better than most the difference Telethon funding can make. She was diagnosed with spastic diplegia cerebral palsy at just 18 months old.

Little Telethon stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas.
Camera IconLittle Telethon stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas. Credit: Kelsey Reid/The West Australian

People with the disorder — a neurological condition causing severe stiffness and weakness in the limbs — often need surgery to realign their bones, which can easily dislocate.

A hip operation last year shattered the Lucy’s confidence, leaving her unable to even crawl. But she regained her assurance after enrolling at Healthy Strides, an intensive Telethon-funded physiotherapy program.

Yesterday, she was having the time of her life — particularly when she spotted the professional hair and make-up team waiting to see her.

Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas.
Camera IconOliver Lim and Lucy Antipas. Credit: Kelsey Reid/The West Australian

“Ollie is getting pampered already and soon it will be my turn!” she declared.

Like Lucy, 14 year-old Ollie was dressed to impress. Kitted out in a stylish suit and bow-tie, the teenager had some tricks up his sleeve for the broadcast.

“I’m trying to get one of my props ready, hopefully it’ll be ready by tonight ... I just need a lot of paper,” he said.

Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas.
Camera IconOliver Lim and Lucy Antipas. Credit: Kelsey Reid/The West Australian

Ollie’s sense of humour has stayed strong in the face of incredible adversity.

He has systemic lupus erythematosus, an immune disorder that damages the skin, hair, blood and brain.

To stop his body from shutting down, he has had to undergo multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and more than 50 IV methylprednisolone infusions. He has to take a large container of medication every single day.

Little Telethon stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas with Oliver's brother and parents George and Amelia, as well as Lucy's parents Nic and Emma.
Camera IconLittle Telethon stars Oliver Lim and Lucy Antipas with Oliver's brother and parents George and Amelia, as well as Lucy's parents Nic and Emma. Credit: Kelsey Reid/The West Australian

But it hasn’t stopped Ollie throwing his all into Telethon — and raising more than $30,000.

“Please donate, it will really help with research and medical funding,” he said. “Do it for the sick kids!”

Ollie’s Dad George said that the response from the public had been “phenomenal”.

Little Telethon star Oliver Lim.
Camera IconLittle Telethon star Oliver Lim. Credit: Kelsey Reid/The West Australian

“It’s just been amazing to see everyone rally around,” he said.

“It’s a special event, we’re so proud of Ollie. For so many people to donate, it’s an incredible thing.”

The work of the little Telethon stars isn’t over yet, though — they’ll star in tonight’s closing show at Crown.

Watch the action live on Channel 7 Perth and donate at any time via telethon7.com

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