Twins Toby and Ruby were born on 22nd September 2026 at 22 weeks and 4 days gestation. On presenting to Wollongong Hospital in early labour, treatment was administered until criteria were met for transportation to Royal Hospital for Women (RHW). The twins were born a few hours after arriving at RHW. Toby, born 6.37pm, lost his heartbeat for several minutes during delivery but was able to be revived, weighing 600g. Ruby, born 8.24pm, was born breech in her amniotic sac - weighing 592g.

Sadly, after 3 days of fighting, Toby succumbed to his prematurity at 2.42pm 25th September. Doctors believe complications during birth, sepsis, a partially collapsed lung and bleeding due to PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) were contributing factors to Toby's inability to respond to treatment.

Thankfully, Ruby is still fighting. She has responded well to treatment and continues to impress the doctors and nurses with her progress. But her fight is not over. It is expected that she will remain in NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) until atleast her due date in January, most likely beyond. Due to her prematurity there is a high likelihood of long term health impacts, including but not limited to cerebral palsy, respiratory issues or blindness which may not become apparent until she is older.

The purpose of this campaign is to aid parents Laura and Matt as they navigate staying in Sydney to care for Ruby, looking after their 3 year old son Reggie and managing Toby's funeral arrangements.

Funds raised will contribute to covering expenses while they stay in Sydney to be near Ruby including groceries, hospital parking and accommodation to allow Reggie to stay with his parents and spend precious time with Ruby. It will also help with uncertain variables such as loss of income during Ruby's extended time in hospital and potential long term health care needs for Ruby.

Laura and Matt are hopeful that by sharing their experiences, advocating and raising awareness of prematurity and neonatal loss, they can help make the journeys of others that little bit easier.

Any funds raised surplus to their needs will be donated to organisations and charities who do so much good work supporting families experiencing similar circumstances including;

RHW foundation

Miracle Babies Foundation

Bears of Hope

Evergreen Three

Olive & Kin