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At just 29, Rohail’s life changed overnight when a simple throat infection led to Guillain-Barré syndrome, leaving him paralysed and unable to breathe. Over Christmas, the Royal North Shore Hospital ICU team surrounded him with expert care and kindness, celebrating every milestone – from his first movements to eating again. Months of rehabilitation followed, and today Rohail is rebuilding his independence with hope and determination.

Born at just 24 weeks, tiny Josiah spent his first Christmas in the RNSH NICU, surrounded by machines and constant care. Despite the challenges of prematurity, the NICU team provided warmth, love, and support, helping his family through this difficult time. Though Josiah is no longer with them, his family honours his memory by supporting other families to receive the same compassionate care.

A relaxing summer holiday turned into a medical emergency when Louise was rushed to hospital with a severe bowel obstruction just before Christmas. Thanks to the continuity of care between RNSH, Ryde Hospital and Hospital in the Home, she received expert treatment, compassionate support and vital equipment that helped her recover at home. Today, Louise and her partner Lyn are filled with gratitude for the care that carried them through.

A Halloween fire left Sharon with burns to more than half her body just weeks before Christmas. At RNSH, she underwent nearly 30 surgeries and months of intensive rehabilitation. Surrounded by nurses who decorated her room and lifted her spirits through pain and setbacks, Sharon found the courage to heal and rediscover her strength.

When Melissa went into labour at only 27 weeks, her baby Mariah was delivered just before Christmas, weighing little more than a kilogram. The RNSH NICU team became her lifeline, caring for Mariah around the clock and filling those anxious days with festive warmth and hope. After five weeks, Melissa finally took her healthy baby girl home – a Christmas gift she’ll never forget.