From the tiny South Burnett town of Mondure, with a population of around 100, the Parry family are just one of many families travelling from regional Queensland for medical treatment for their child.
What began as a routine 20-week scan shifted quickly when doctors spent extra time examining baby Kinsley’s heart. Additional tests followed, and days later, her parents received life-altering news: Kinsley had been diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, a rare congenital heart condition.
Throughout the remainder of the pregnancy, Kinsley’s heart was closely monitored through regular scans. There were many unknowns, including whether the family would need to relocate to Brisbane for the birth.
Fortunately, Kinsley was born at her local hospital. After a few days of monitoring in special care, the family was able to return home together.
For the first few months, things progressed well. Then, at six-months old, Kinsley caught COVID. Her oxygen levels dropped, and she experienced a tet spell – a serious episode associated with her heart condition.
It was one of the scariest moments the family had ever faced.
Not long after, they received the call that Kinsley’s open-heart surgery would need to be scheduled.
As preparations were made for surgery at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, the family were introduced to Ronald McDonald House South East Queensland.
Having a place to stay close to their daughter’s care quickly became essential.
During Kinsley’s surgery and recovery, the family stayed at both Ronald McDonald House South East Queensland Herston and South Brisbane. Throughout the five days Kinsley spent in PICU, having somewhere close to rest, shower, eat, or even sit quietly for a moment meant everything.
In an overwhelming and uncertain time, it was the simple comforts that made the greatest difference. Freshly prepared dinners through Meals from the Heart, a comfortable place to sit, Sunday pancakes, and friendly chats with volunteers provided moments of comfort. These small touches offered a sense of normality in a time that felt anything but normal.
Kinsley is now recovering from her surgery and will require monitoring for the rest of her life. While her journey will continue, the family has been reassured that she should be able to live a happy and healthy life – something they’ll hold on to every day.
