At just 17 years old, Ashton was living the life of a typical teenager, studying hard for his HSC, spending time with friends, and looking forward to his future plans of year 12 end of year celebrations, schoolies and enrolling in University. But everything changed when what seemed like a simple virus suddenly became something far more serious.

Ash’s health deteriorated rapidly, and he was diagnosed with liver failure. In a matter of days, his and his family’s world was turned upside down. Through the generosity of a selfless donor family, Ashton received the gift of life, a liver transplant that gave him another chance.

We thought this would be the start of his new journey, one filled with recovery, gratitude, and living his life to the fullest. But despite his incredible strength and determination, 12 months on and Ashton is still facing ongoing complications and infections that have kept him in and out of hospital for many long months.

Now, heartbreakingly, Ashton needs a second liver transplant.

Through all of this, Ash has shown extraordinary courage. His resilience, positive spirit, and sense of humour continue to shine even through the darkest days. He is surrounded around the clock by the unwavering love and support of his beautiful family, Kim, Dave, Cameron, and Taj who share every moment of this rollercoaster alongside him.

The incredible medical and nursing teams at RPA Hospital have worked tirelessly to care for Ashton, but this journey has taken a huge emotional and financial toll on Ash and his family. Between time off work, medical costs and the day-to-day expenses of being by his bedside, the challenges are immense. Not to mention the future medication costs that Ash will have for the rest of his life.

Ashton has a long road ahead of him to get well and retransplant. Many people have offered to help but haven’t known how, so now we are reaching out to our community, their friends, family, and those touched by Ashton’s story to help ease the burden and allow his family to focus on what matters most, helping Ash to stay strong, get well and give him the best possible chance at recovery. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. Your kindness will help support Ashton and his family as they face this next chapter with hope, love, and courage.

From the bottom of our hearts thank you for supporting our beautiful Ashton.