A 12 year old girl who made a huge impact on the world with her beautiful smile and enormous kindness was how Chloe Saxby was remembered by family and friends in a celebration of her life on Friday.
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The funeral took place just one week after Chloe lost her battle with vanishing white matter disease. And was attended by 400 people all wearing masks at Wollongong Town Hall as thousands more watched a live stream because of Covid-19 restrictions.
Balloons, flowers and rainbows surrounded the venue and everyone dressed in colour.
After family friend Lisa Burling-Blake did the welcome Nyree Saxby was the first to speak accompanied on stage by husband Grant Saxby and Chloe's sister Madeleine.
Mrs Saxby said Chloe made it into so many people'e hearts and stayed there. And thanked the Illawarra community for adding so much love and happiness to her short life.
She said Chloe had a smile and sparkle that brightened even the darkest days. And was an affectionate selfless child who adored her big sister Madeline who was an incredible support and provided her so much love.
Mrs Saxby recalled being so nervous on Chloe's first day of school and whether she would be accepted.
And how she didn't need to be because Chloe was accepted by everyone who loved her for who she was.
Mrs Saxby spoke of Chloe's positive attitude and zest for life at Woonona East Public School and Dream Big Dance School. And how she was the most selfless person who was always thinking of others.
She was such an innocent, pure soul who loved to smile, laugh, listen to music and dance. And would hug people and tell them not to worry when they were having a bad day.
Mrs Saxby said Chloe never had a bad thought about anyone. And if she did get angry the worst thing she would say is "you are a boo boo".
"We will see your beautiful smile in every rainbow, flower, sunrise and sunset, " she said.
Karisha and Jacinta Pinkster, of Dream Big Dance Studio, spoke of how Chloe brought so much joy and happiness into their lives and was so brave and strong.
"Chloe you changed my life for the better and I am forever grateful for your friendship and everything you taught me," Karisha said.
Jacinta said Dream Big was a dance school for people with a disability. She started the studio to give people like Chloe the chance to participate, learn, grow, dance and perform. And that is exactly what she did attending every lesson and performance with a big bright smile and eagerness to please and learn.
Ms Pinkster said she enjoyed seeing the love, adoration and pride on the faces of her family as they watched Chloe shine.
She said it was not only important to celebrate Chloe on Friday but the entire family for being a pillar of strength, determination and hope that inspires us all.
"Thank you for opening up your lives and allowing us all to be part of your journey," she said.
"Thank you for sharing your precious girl with us through all of the ups and downs. I hope that in return you can all take some comfort in feeling the love and support of Team Chloe Saxby across the globe."
Ms Pinkster also spoke of Chloe's selflessness and kindness.
"You maybe just one little girl but the impact you have had on this world is enormous. The legacy you leave behind is one we are all so grateful for. You will not be forgotten. I hope you are dancing free wherever you are somewhere over the raindow."
You will not be forgotten. I hope you are dancing free wherever you are somewhere over the raindow
- Jacinta Pinkster
"Chloe was always surrounded by people who were naturally drawn to her. At our dance lessons everyone wanted to stand next to Chloe. She taught us some of life's greatest lessons. She showed us what it meant to be positive and motivated, enthusiastic and hardworking, determined and resilient."
Uncle Gary Laurie recalled how when Chloe was first diagnosed a Sydney Children's Hospital nurse remarked how the Illawarra had such a strong sense of community. And how so many people in the region have played a special part in Chloe's life and wrapped her in love.
Aunty Nicole Laurie said Chloe had the most beautiful heart and soul and was a girl who did so much to inspire others .
"Chloe started a movement. Chloe inspired a community. And brought the best out in people. She brought people together."
Mrs Laurie said the family will never forget all the amazing people who joined the fight to save Chloe.
"This little girl captured the hearts of thousands," she said.
Chloe's cousins Natalie Collins and Courtney Saxby shared many memories such as her love of stickers, food and fun photos. And wearing Cheezels on her fingers
Melasande Carey joined Mrs Laurie in acknowledging Madeleine for being such an amazing sister and echoed Mrs Laurie's sentiments about what great parents Grant and Nyree Saxby were. And how all who knew Chloe felt gratitude that she has been part of their life.
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
