I’m a very proud aunty asking for help for my twin sister and her 15-year-old son, Micah.

Micah was born with a serious heart condition. When he was just 3 days old, he underwent a balloon valvuloplasty to help his aortic valve work properly. He’s done incredibly well ever since, but now his aortic valve is deteriorating. It’s no longer working as it should, causing blood to leak back through the valve and making his heart work much harder than it should. While this isn’t an immediate emergency, his surgery needs to happen before his valve fails.

He’s now been prioritised for open-heart surgery in Melbourne, where he’ll undergo a Ross procedure. This major surgery is expected to take place within the next few months.

My sister has worked so hard to rebuild her life after surviving domestic violence. She now has a stable home with her supportive fiancé and children, aged 15, 18, 20 and 22. But right now, everything is focused on getting Micah through this surgery safely.

She’ll need to travel from Perth to Melbourne with Micah for his operation and recovery. They are expected to be away for around 6–8 weeks, depending on how he recovers, and possibly longer if there are any complications.

While she’s away, life at home doesn’t stop. Rent, utilities, car repayments and everyday bills will still need to be paid, all while she’s unable to work and is focused on being by her son’s side.

We’re hoping to raise enough to help take some of that financial pressure away, so she can put all of her energy into supporting Micah through his surgery and recovery.

The funds will help cover:

As accomodation is covered under Pats program for Jess, it will help with food and everyday living expenses while in Melbourne.

Transport, including taxis, Ubers and public transport.

Household bills and essential expenses back home while she’s unable to work.

If we’re fortunate enough to raise more than we need, any remaining funds will be donated to HeartKids WA to help support other families going through similar journeys.

If you’re not in a position to donate, sharing this page would mean the world to our family. Every share helps us reach more people.

Thank you for taking the time to read Micah’s story, for your kindness, and for keeping him in your thoughts as he prepares for this next chapter.