Raising for Theo

Our son Theo has spent over 100 days in hospital this year.

What began as a short stay after he was born has become months of specialist appointments, tests, scans and countless hours by his bedside while doctors work to understand the complex medical challenges he faces. After months, he has now been diagnosed with Interstitial Lung Disease, Hypotonia & Congenital Motor Nystagmus. These diagnosis however don't lay out a clear path forward and there is still a lot of unknowns. Theo may need assistance with breathing, feeding and occupational therapy for months or years to come. But there is still hope, and we're incredibly grateful for the amazing doctors, nurses and therapists who continue to care for him every day.

During this time we've been fortunate to have the love and support of our family and friends. Our parents have helped us in ways we'll never be able to fully repay, and we've been overwhelmed by the kindness shown to us.

The reality, though, is that a long hospital journey comes with many ongoing costs. Between daily travel, parking, accommodation, meals, fuel, time away from work and the medical equipment and therapies Theo will need after coming home - including oxygen supplies, feeding equipment and specialist appointments - the financial pressure has continued to grow.

We've always found it difficult to ask for help, but so many people have asked how they can support us. This fundraiser is for anyone who would like to help ease some of that burden so we can focus on what matters most: caring for Theo.

To give something back and raise awareness, Sam be taking on a personal challenge to run 2.3 kilometres for every day Theo has spent in hospital this year—currently over 230 kilometres in total (and counting). Every kilometre represents another day that Theo has shown incredible strength, and another reminder of how far he's already come. 50% off all support from this fundraiser will be donated to the Royal Hospital for Women to support the incredible NICU team.

Whether you choose to donate, share this page, or simply follow along with the running challenge, thank you. Your encouragement means more to us than we can put into words.

From the bottom of our hearts,

Sam, Renee & Theo ❤️