Rome’s medical

Hi, my name is Jolene and i am Rome’s mum. I am currently asking for help to pay for Rome’s medical bills for his Bronchoscopy in Brisbane on the 13th of February at the Mater hospital Brisbane by Dr Scott Burgess (respiratory specialist). We are having to travel down on the 12th of February and stay in a hotel for 2 nights if everything goes well possibly longer if any issues arise which is an out of pocket expense of my own on top of the hospital, surgery and anaesthetist cost (which are not bulk billed or publicly subsidised). Rome has struggled with a chronic cough to the point of vomiting for the past 6 months, we have done numerous x-ray as well as 11 treatments of antibiotics (making 21 lots of antibiotics in his 1 year of life already) to fight this cough some courses of antibiotics lasting for 28 days but nothing has beaten it. Most nights i wake to him choking on his own vomit in his sleep, it’s honestly gut wrenching. I am a single mum of Rome as well as Kai’dyn (my step son) not that that matters as regardless of being single or in a relationship everyone is struggling in some way.

I am having to pay for this surgical procedure out of pocket due to the bundaberg base hospital not sending referrals to Brisbane correctly leading to this being a 6 going on 7 month long issue and not being seen by anyone. I was force to make the decision to go privately to ensure Rome was seen in a timely manner and this issue get’s resolved without a major incident. Rome’s surgery also comes at an extra risk with him having a 5mm hole in his heart and constant breathing issues, we’re also currently investigating if Rome is having seizures as well as Laryngomalacia (weak, floppy tissues above the voice box temporarily fall back over the airway) during the bronchoscopy Dr. Burgess will also be checking for Tracheomalacia (weak or floppy cartilage in your trachea (windpipe). The walls of your windpipe can collapse or fall in). Rome has had constant issues with breathing since he was a newborn baby having his first hospital visit at just 2 weeks old for changing colour. Rome goes mottled constantly as well as having passing out spells from lack of oxygen, so i am desperate to try to help my boy.

I am 100% swallowing my pride here and asking for help so i can help Rome. I understand times are extremely tough for everyone and i appreciate everyone’s kind words and support.

Lots of love from myself and Rome.