Remote NT couple's upcoming newborn health journey

We are a group of friends rallying behind Phoenix and Laurence Ranking, a couple from Nhulunbuy (remote NT) who are facing incredible challenges. We are reaching out to loved ones, friends, colleagues, fellow parents, Territorians and any other generous souls who can help in this amazing couple's time of need.

Phoenix and Laurence were joyfully preparing for the arrival of their first baby this October when a routine ultrasound revealed serious complications with life-altering consequences for their young family. Their unborn baby has been diagnosed with a rare and serious congenital heart condition called Transposition of the Great Arteries. This means that the critical blood vessels going in and out of the heart are reversed and the baby cannot get oxygen from breathing after they are born. Without intensive medical and surgical intervention at birth this condition is fatal, and it carries the risk of major complications.

As you can imagine, this news has totally upended the lives of these parents-to-be. Phoenix and Laurence are required to travel 4000km from home to access highly specialised critical care. They need to relocate to Melbourne for an estimated 5-6 months, leaving their home, work and support system while their baby recovers from open-heart surgery in the ICU, children's cardiac ward, and then staying nearby for follow-up care. As longtime residents of the NT, they are devastated to be away from their home and the community they love so much for so long.

Many of you will have had your lives touched by this couple. Laurence, a freelance photographer, shares his love of the region through his landscape and wildlife photos. Phoenix, a dedicated remote community GP and medical educator, has worked tirelessly towards improving the health of the community and developing the future local health workforce.

Due to the nature of their work they do not have access to sufficient paid leave to support this long, urgent journey. At this crucial time, they are reaching out to their community for support. We are hoping you will help share the load so that Phoenix and Laurence can focus on the delivery, surgery and recovery of their critically ill baby in the months to come.

Your donations will be used for:

Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference to this family. Please share through your networks so that this amazing couple can bring their beautiful bub home to the Territory in 2024.

Thank you for your generosity and for being a pillar of support in Phoenix and Laurence's time of need. Together, we can help them face this difficult journey and give their baby the best chance at a healthy and happy future.