News

Red Nose fundraiser close to the heart

By Anna McGuinness

Sep 30, 2022

Lighting a flame: Shepparton mum Amy Wheeler is fundraising for Red Nose Australia.

Shepparton’s Amy Wheeler is fundraising for a cause close to her heart, ahead of global event Wave of Light during Baby Loss Awareness Week.

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In December 2020, Ms Wheeler and partner Nick lost their four-month-old son, Ottie Dullard, to sudden infant death syndrome.

“I do a bit of fundraising once a year to remember and to get people talking about baby loss, stillbirths and pregnancy loss,” Ms Wheeler said.

In 2021, Ms Wheeler raised $26,000 for Bears of Hope and this year she is selling candles ahead of Wave of Light, with all profits going to Red Nose Australia.

“Whatever country you're in, if you light a candle between 7pm and 8pm on October 15 it creates a wave of light around the world,” Ms Wheeler said.

“I was looking for a candle that could have Ottie’s name on it and I couldn't find one, so I just thought I'd make my own and turn it into a fundraiser.”

In memory: Amy Wheeler with a picture of little Ottie, photographed in May. Photo by Megan Fisher

With the support of local businesses Zoodles, StampHit, Willprint and Lauren Kiss, Ms Wheeler is donating the $10 profit from every candle sold to Red Nose Australia.

Red Nose Australia has a goal of zero sudden and unexpected deaths of babies and children, with donations supporting families, funding vital research and saving little lives.

The candles can be purchased through the Instagram page @lost_little_embers