After being born with the rare genetic condition Williams Syndrome (WS), Bowie was only two when she underwent open-heart surgery.

"It was very scary," said mum Coralie Mawter of the 12-hour-long operation which was "awful" for her worried family. The invasive procedure - which not all children survive - was only meant to last four hours.

But since then, the change in Bowie has been remarkable.

"[Now] she can run faster...., she eats more, it's made a huge difference," Mrs Mawter said.

"She's just full of energy.... She's got two brothers and a sister so she can keep up with them now and wrestle with them a bit more."

It seemed like even the little girl's hair had grown healthier and looked "happier" since her surgery.

Mrs Mawter explained that Bowie was diagnosed at the age of one with WS. The rare genetic condition is a result of her having fewer chromosomes.

WS is also characterised by a number of medical problems, including cardiovascular disease, developmental delays and learning challenges.

Children born with WS also often have striking verbal abilities and highly social personalities. The latter of which is immediately obvious to all those who meet Bowie, her mum says.

"She is very bubbly [and] happy. She's the kid that will hug anyone and she tells you she loves you like 400 times a day," she said.

"She still has her normal temper tantrums like any kid but she's my happiest kid. [She] will try and help any other kid [she sees] crying. She's super sweet."

With just two weeks to go until Bowie's very first birthday party, the little girl couldn't be more excited. And to make the event even better, in the lead-up to her special day, Mrs Mawter's workplace is hosting a Kids Fun Day fundraiser for Jeans for Genes Day.

The annual fundraiser is held for the 1 in 20 children like Bowie who are born with a birth defect or genetic disorder.

On Sunday, May 23, Integra Health Club - where Mrs Mawter works as a fitness instructor - will host the fundraiser for the Children's Medical Research Institute with jumping castles, food stalls and more.

The Fun Day will run from 9am until midday at 17 Ralston Drive.

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