My niece, Shona, is currently pregnant with her and her partner Harley’s first baby, who has been diagnosed with coarctation of the aorta — a serious congenital heart defect where the main artery carrying blood from the heart is dangerously narrowed. Without surgical correction, this condition can be life-threatening.

Throughout her pregnancy, Shona has been travelling weekly from Taree to John Hunter Hospital to be closely monitored by specialists. Once their baby is born, they will need to be transferred immediately to Sydney, where their newborn will undergo open heart surgery within the first days of life, followed by an extended stay in hospital.

This should be a time filled with excitement and anticipation. Instead, Shona and Harley are facing fear and uncertainty as they prepare to welcome their first child under the most challenging circumstances imaginable.

During this time, Shona will need Harley by her side — to support her physically and emotionally, and to be present for their baby through surgery, recovery, and critical care. In order to do this, Harley will need to take time away from work, meaning their family will be without a steady income while still facing everyday bills and significant travel costs.

Funds raised will help cover:

• Rent or mortgage payments

• Electricity, water, and essential bills

• Travel between Taree, Newcastle, and Sydney

• Food, accommodation, and lost income during hospitalisation

This fundraiser is not about extras — it is about allowing two first-time parents to stay together, to sit beside their baby’s hospital bed, and to focus on their newborn’s survival without the constant fear of financial hardship.

Any donation, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page would mean the world to their family.

Thank you for your compassion, generosity, and support during this incredibly difficult time.