On 20th November, the Boyd family met the greatest challenge of their lives. It was an otherwise normal day of work, home-education and activities for this beautiful family, when beloved dad and husband, Aaron, had an unexpected cardiac arrest while at work. After 20 minutes of CPR initially from Mark and Jacq along with much needed help from Catherine, some amazing firefighters and paramedics then took over. Aaron’s heart stabilised and he was put into an induced coma. After being stabilised at Bendigo, he has now been transported to Melbourne for the ongoing specialised care that he needs. He is awake and making a remarkable recovery. He is being called a miracle.

This is a nightmare situation for any family, and the Boyd's life has been deeply disrupted. Aaron has a significant recovery ahead of him, including tests and surgeries. Miriam and their three children have shifted to Melbourne to be close to Aaron during his hospital stay. They are navigating the situation with grace and love, and, as ever, Miriam is an unconditionally and inspiringly supportive presence for Aaron and their children, all while navigating the uncertainty and grief of the situation.

As a close friend, I can attest to the love and commitment within this beautiful family. Miriam and Aaron are responsive, engaged and available parents to their children whom they have chosen to lovingly home-educate, and this means that they rely on Aaron's business as their sole income. My dream in setting up this fundraiser is that we can come together as a community of caring people to collectively raise enough money so that the Boyd's do not have to worry about their income during Aaron's recovery. This is a powerful way to redistribute wealth to a family in a time of need, and in so doing, help to reduce stress and ease their load in their journey of recovery.

My aim is that we raise $10,000 to cover their living expenses for the next month or so, including their stay in Melbourne. If you feel able and willing, please contribute what is within your capacity. Every contribution is appreciated, no matter the size, and will make a difference to Aaron's recovery and the family's wellbeing.