A world turned upside down
At 26 weeks pregnant, Josephine’s life took an unexpected turn. Living on the Sunshine Coast, she was urgently transferred to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, where she underwent an emergency C-section to deliver her baby boy, Leonard.
Weighing only 443 grams, Leonard was immediately placed in the NICU. Over the following weeks, he faced numerous challenges, developing several chronic conditions, including pulmonary hemorrhage, edema, anemia, sepsis, milk curd obstruction, jaundice, chronic lung disease, mild subclinical hypothyroidism, and metabolic bone disease.
As I reflect on Leonard’s journey, I feel a mix of emotions – worry, fear, but most of all, gratitude. Leonard’s long cuddles, his face while he lays in comfort with his tiny hands wrapped around my finger makes everything so much easier.” – Josephine, Leonard’s mum
For Josephine and her family, RMHC SEQ’s support was nothing short of a lifeline. From the moment she arrived at Herston House she felt welcomed and an immense sense of warmth and understanding from staff and volunteers. Having access to RMHC alleviated financial and emotional stress, allowing her to focus on what really mattered – Leonard’s health. The Meals from the Heart Program and community donations of handmade blankets and baby clothes served as a reminder of how incredible and generous our community really is.
Leonard continues to make progress, gaining strength each day. With two more surgeries planned, Josephine is looking forward to the day she can finally return home to the Sunshine Coast with Leonard.
Donate Today or Get Involved
Help families like Josephine’s stay close to their ill or injured children when they need it most. Donate today or get involved to make a life-changing difference with RMHC SEQ.