Making Riki ’ s dream come true for her 30th Birthday
Since she was little , Riki has always loved Humphrey . Riki likes to watch Humphrey and listen to all the songs . Humphrey and his videos even help to de-escalate Riki ’ s heightened behaviour . Riki gets so much joy from singing along to the songs and giggles when she sees him .
When House Manager , Nike and Support Worker Shona , saw Humphrey was going to be at the Fringe they thought it would be a perfect gift for Riki ’ s upcoming 30th birthday .
Unfortunately , due to several factors the staff couldn ’ t get Riki to the Fringe and they were so disappointed .
However , this was not going to be the end . Shona was not going to let this slide and was determined to have Riki meet Humphrey .
Shona ’ s next idea was to track down a suit and dress up for Riki as a surprise for her birthday party . This proved extremely difficult and after days of searching the efforts were unsuccessful .
Shona then reached out to Cosi and his South Aussie with Cosi team in hope that Cosi could put the word out on the radio . Shona was hoping that the costume would still be in Adelaide or that someone may have a connection to help .
Cosi and especially to see Riki meet Humphrey .
The group went in and met up with Cosi and his team . Filming began with Cosi having a quick chat to Riki and then it was time for the big surprise .
The moment that Humphrey came around from behind Cosi ’ s car was just magical . Riki smiled , giggled and called out to Humphrey . It was the most beautiful moment and there was not a dry eye in the place .
Humphrey and Riki spent lots of time together and there were lots of hugs . Humphrey even took Riki on a little walk which she just loved .
Throughout the meeting , Riki continued to giggle and smile and it was more than the team could have ever hoped for .
It was a beautiful experience and the team were so happy to be able to make Riki ’ s dream come true .
The episode is scheduled to air on Channel 7 sometime towards the end of April and early May .
The very next day Cosi reached out and put Shona in touch with Amanda from his production team . Amanda was wonderful and had thought of a great plan about how to surprise Riki .
In the weeks leading up to the surprise there was a lot of behind the scenes organising and planning that took place including gaining consents for filming , photos , logistics , location , etc , all the while keeping it a secret for a wonderful surprise for Riki .
On the morning of the surprise , Riki was in a wonderful mood and got ready to go out for the day . Riki , Nike and Shona met up with Riki ’ s dad , Riki ’ s Grandfather and Emma ( GM Client Services ) outside the gates of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens . Everyone was nervous but so excited to meet
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