On July 4th, 2024, three-year-old Riley suffered a stroke - the first of many that would change everything for her and her family.

Riley lives with an extremely rare condition called MSMDS - a multisystem disease that affects her brain, heart, lungs, muscles and more. Only around 60 people in the world have been diagnosed with it. Since birth, she’s faced countless hurdles, including open heart surgery at just 9 weeks old, and additional diagnoses of cerebral palsy and dysphagia.

Since that first stroke, Riley has had multiple strokes and transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes). She’s been airlifted, hospitalised and admitted to ICU more times than anyone should experience - let alone a four-year-old. Each incident has left its mark, but Riley continues to fight back with her trademark sass and strength.

In July 2025, Riley underwent brain surgery - a big, risky step that came with hope for long-term stability. But post-surgery, she suffered one of her most serious strokes yet. She slowly began to regain movement and was discharged into intensive rehab. During this time, she tackled physiotherapy, speech, and occupational therapy like a little warrior.

Just as things seemed to be improving, Riley was rushed back to Perth Children’s Hospital in late September with a suspected new brain bleed. Her oxygen levels dropped dangerously low, and she was moved to ICU. She’s currently being monitored as her team investigates what’s causing these latest symptoms. More tests, more unknowns, and more hospital time lay ahead.

Since her surgery, the Shawcross family have been living between home and hospital, trying to balance work, school, iRehab, appointments and hospital admissions all while trying to hold onto some sense of normal life. Because of this, Steph has not been able to work and Henry has used all of his sick/annual/carers leave

They’ve explored every option and aren’t ones to ask for help, but the financial pressure is now impossible to ignore. Travel costs and time off work have all added up. Right now, they just need some breathing space to focus on their little girl without the stress of money hanging over them.

Your donation will help cover:

• Ongoing travel near Perth Children’s Hospital

• Essentials for daily living while away from home

• Catching up on critical bills so the family can keep their home

Every donation - big or small - truly helps.

And if you can’t donate right now, sharing Riley’s story is just as powerful

Thank you for being part of Riley’s village.