Support for the Melia Family

Hello,

We have created this GoFundMe on behalf of our brother, Pod, his wife Claire and their 3 children as they face the unimaginable with their 6 month old daughter, Josephine.

Josie was born in May and was diagnosed at birth with Noonan syndrome, a genetic condition that affects her heart. Alongside this, she has experienced kidney issues and underwent multiple surgeries as a newborn to address blockages.

At the same time, Pod and Claire’s 11 year old son, Reilly, was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that will require further treatment and likely more hospital stays in the future.

In October, Josie’s mum, Claire, noticed that her iris appeared discoloured under certain lighting. After initial concerns it might be a cataract, further testing revealed something far more serious. Josie was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare cancer that develops in the eye. Scans showed an 11mm tumour in the back of her left eye (her eye is only 18mm in size) and likely tumours in her right eye as well. Josie has now begun chemotherapy in the fight to save her vision and her life.

This has been an incredibly challenging time for Pod, Claire, their children, and their extended family. At just 6 months old, Josie has a long road ahead of her, with ongoing treatments and chemotherapy. Due to the complexity of her case, she requires regular travel from Launceston to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, as well as the Royal Hobart Hospital for care and treatment.

Adding to the strain, Pod also has a severe heart condition and is currently working full-time. Having already used all his leave to support Josie and Claire so far, attending the many hospital visits in Melbourne and Hobart has become increasingly difficult.

In 2025, financial strain will likely continue as Josie will not be able to attend childcare due to her health, making it difficult for Claire to return to work as much as she had planned.

We are hoping to raise funds to help ease the financial burden on the Melia family during this difficult time. Your donations will help support them as they travel for treatment, cover the bills, medications, hospital stays, and other hidden expenses. Most importantly, it will allow Pod to be by his wife and daughter’s side as much as possible without the added stress of lost income and piling bills.

Let’s come together to support this beautiful family as they fight for their baby girl.

Thank you,

Rosie & Ellie