Hello, my name is Mel, and I never imagined I’d be writing something like this.

I’m reaching out to ask for help for my parents and my younger brother, Matty — a brother who has brought nothing but love, laughter, and resilience into our family.

Matty has Down syndrome and has already faced more in his life than many ever will. He has undergone three open-heart surgeries, and every day we are grateful simply to have him with us.

One of the most important ways Matty stays healthy — both physically and emotionally — is through swimming. It strengthens his body, supports his heart, and gives him a sense of freedom and pure joy that is hard to put into words.

Over Christmas, my partner and I worked side by side with my parents to repair their pool deck, which had become unsafe. Using every bit of money my parents had managed to save, along with help from my mum’s best friend and ourselves, we repaired it so Matty could safely get back into the pool he loves so much. Seeing him smile as he swam again — especially with his nieces — reminded us why we worked so hard to make it happen.

Then, just as we thought we were back on track, everything came crashing down...

In the new year, my dad discovered a hole in the pool liner, making the pool unusable once again. After several quotes, the cheapest option to replace it was $4,959.90 For many families that might be manageable — but for my parents, it simply isn’t. They have already given everything they can.

Taking Matty to public pools isn’t a realistic option. He is most comfortable, calm, and safe in the familiar environment of his own home. The pool isn’t a luxury for him — it’s a lifeline.

My parents contacted the NDIS, hoping for support, only to be told the repair doesn’t directly address Matty’s condition. Hearing that was heartbreaking. Matty’s condition is lifelong. His needs don’t disappear just because they can’t be “fixed.”

So here we are, asking for help.

Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to restoring something that means the world to Matty — his ability to move freely, stay healthy, and experience happiness in the place he feels safest.

If you can help in any way, or even share this fundraiser, our family would be forever grateful. Thank you for reading our story and for caring about a young man who deserves every chance to keep thriving.