On August 18th in the early hours of the morning, my sons partner and loving mother to two, Melanie, suffered an acute stroke at just 35yrs old; Luckily Luke woke alongside her & acted quickly... he called an ambulance and she was taken to the John Hunter where she underwent brain surgery to remove a blood clot.

Mel spent a week in hospital, but has only just embarked on what could be a fairly lengthy road to recovery.

Since the stroke, unfortunately Mel is still very fatigued and has also now lost most of the use of her left arm and is currently unable to do things for herself without assistance.

Luke has also had to all but stop working for their small business, since the stroke, due to caring for Mel and the girls.

During this time, they are facing overwhelming financial strain from bills, living expenses, rent etc.

Whilst she has been Lucky to return home and able to begin rehab at Rankin park day centre... its unknown how long it will be till she is able to drive, work, care for the girls alone etc.

I am hopeful that we can rely on community support and I have set up this GoFundMe for them, in the hopes that everyone giving a little, will help this young family a lot.

any donations will be used to alleviate some of the financial stress and allow them to focus on the girls and what's important, while Mel works towards what is hopefully a full recovery.