Grayson devine

In memory of my precious little warrior, Grayson, who tragically passed away at the tender age of five months on January 19, 2025. Although his life was brief, his influence on our lives was profound and far-reaching.

My name is Petrina, and I had the privilege of being Grayson’s mother. I am raising funds to alleviate the stress and tragedy that accompany such devastating loss. All the funds raised will be used to provide Grayson with the send-off he truly deserves.

Grayson rescued me from a domestic violent relationship, and now it’s my turn to help him.

For those who haven’t heard our story, I’m now ready to share it with you. Please be aware that the following events may be triggering.

For years, I endured a domestic violent relationship with the father of my children. In February 2023, I discovered I was pregnant with my courageous son, Grayson. I was certain I wanted him, and I was determined to have him. However, the perpetrator made it clear that he had no desire for any more children. At 20 weeks pregnant, he brutally assaulted me.

The assault had devastating consequences for Grayson, who sustained injuries. The assault caused my membranes and waters to rupture. I was presented with options, but I was fully aware of the risks. I knew that my baby boy might not survive, yet I clung to hope and continued my pregnancy. I carried Grayson for another 11 weeks. Since he had no fluid, I was closely monitored and had to remain in the hospital.

I was 31 weeks pregnant when, on August 7th 2024 at 8:30pm, I welcomed Grayson into the world. He was severely unwell. It took the doctors over an hour to stabilise him. Due to the gravity of his condition, he was transferred to the Royal Children’s Hospital. I couldn’t be by his side until I had recovered and was discharged from Logan Hospital. Despite the circumstances, I remained hopeful because I still didn’t know the full extent of the consequences of the assault.

Over the next five months, I experienced an unforgettable journey filled with both triumphs and setbacks. Despite the ever-present uncertainty, I clung to the hope that he would return home.

In the first two weeks of Grayson’s life, he endured 15 seizures, which marked the beginning of my deepest nightmare. He was diagnosed with a multitude of conditions, including an inability to swallow, severe mobility limitations, and frequent episodes of bradycardia, which caused him to cease breathing. Additionally, he was born with a genetic condition, but it was the assault that inflicted the lasting damage on Grayson.

There were times when he was thriving, and other times when he faced uncertainty. The medical professionals couldn’t explain his condition because he was a fighter. He proved them wrong. He was the oldest and fattest baby to leave the neonatal intensive care unit. He looked remarkably healthy. There were plans for him to finally come home, and my family would finally be complete.

This all came crashing down on Monday, January 13, 2025, after a medical episode. The medical professionals finally uncovered the full extent of Grayson’s condition. I, along with the head doctor of the PICU, had to make a decision that no parent should ever have to make.

Grayson had rescued me, and now it was my turn to save him. The decision to medically end his suffering was made with his best interests in mind. I had only a week left with my precious baby boy. When I received the sign, I made the right choice, as he began to rapidly decline.

On January 19, 2025, at 3:58 p.m., Grayson peacefully passed away in my arms, surrounded by the love of his godmother and sister.

Fly high, my boy, at last, you’re at peace until we meet again. I love you, Grayson.

Grayson’s life was tragically taken away by domestic violence. Pregnant women are the most vulnerable and high-risk victims and survivors of such abuse. I will continue to raise awareness and share his story until justice is served.