When dancer Larisa Magda takes to the stage on Australia’s Got Talent, she knows her sister Alice is watching on with pride. Larisa is two years older than Alice, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth.
“The doctors told us that Alice wouldn’t live past the age of 2,” the 15-year-old tells New Idea.
However, Larisa says her inspirational sister has defied the odds.
WATCH: AGT Semi-Finals: Which two acts make it through to the Grand Final?
“Alice has fought for her life and is now 13,” Larisa says.
“She’s the miracle of our family.” But the talented dancer admits the circumstances meant she had a unique childhood.
“I had to grow up quickly because I had to be responsible and help out.”
This level of maturity shines through in Larisa’s expressive dance routines and strengthens her determination for dancing.
“For me, dancing is an escape because there are so many stressful things in my life. I know when I’m dancing, I can let go and be in the moment.”
Ultimately, Larisa is just grateful that her sister is here today. “I’m getting emotional [talking about this], but I’ve seen her go through so much and it’s made me realise my family is special and I just appreciate her being here.”
Ahead of her AGT semi-final appearance, Larisa knows that no one is more pleased to see her perform than her sister.
“You can tell when she watches me dance that she is proud,” she adds. “I feel very accomplished just knowing that.”
Watch more of ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ on Channel Seven.
For more, see this week’s New Idea – out soon!
