When the Grobler family moved from South Africa to Australia, they came with hope—hoping to build a better future for their five children while giving back to the community that welcomed them. Kara’s father, Douw, accepted a teaching position at St Joseph’s College in Mildura, helping address the region’s critical teacher shortage and beginning a new life for his family.

That dream has been shattered.

Kara, who lives with cystic fibrosis, suffered a collapsed lung last week and was flown to Melbourne for emergency surgery. Although her condition has stabilised, she remains in hospital receiving ongoing treatment.

Because the family is in Australia on a Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa, they are not eligible for Medicare. Despite complying with visa requirements by holding private health insurance, Kara’s pre-existing condition means much of her treatment is not covered. Medical costs have already reached around $25,000 and continue to rise by approximately $1,600 every day.

For a family new to Australia with five children and currently relying on one income, the financial burden is overwhelming. At the same time, Kara and her mother, Helanie, remain in Melbourne while Douw stays in Mildura caring for their other four children and continuing to teach.

We are asking our community to stand beside the Grobler family during this unimaginable time. Your generosity will help ease the crushing cost of Kara’s life-saving medical care and allow this family to focus on what matters most—helping their little girl recover.