Hi, my name is Alex Charlton, and I am helping my friends, Jenna and Bram Laarman, get their sick daughter transferred from Melbourne Children's Hospital, Australia to Alberta Children's Hospital and to cover some of the medical debt that they've incurred over the last weeks.

Jenna has been working in New Zealand for the last 18 months and I went to visit them last year. Unfortunately, tragedy has struck their family just as they were about to return home to Calgary in mid-February. They were taking the scenic route home via Australia, to do some sightseeingwhen Becca, 14, the third of their 4 children was struck with an acute neurological disorder, affecting her ability to stand and walk.

Unexpectedly, they were made aware that their travel medical insurance claim was denied because they had not yet returned to Canada and their coverage through their credit card is not sufficient. As they are no longer NZ residents, they also are not eligible for the universal free healthcare they would otherwise have been afforded in Australia.

They wanted me to let everyone know that right now they are focusing on getting her the care she needs and getting home safely. Several people have reached out asking how they can help, which has meant so much to them and while they are able to manage this, the unplanned medical and travel costs are significant. If you feel moved to contribute, we've set up this fundraiser. There is absolutely no obligation to take part as your messages and support are just as appreciated. They thank-you very much for being in their corner during this stressful time.