Our first son Xavier was born at 30 weeks (10 weeks premature) and spent 8 weeks in both NICU and Special Care wards. We had no warning that Xavier was coming early due to my wife, Stella, noticing reduced movements.

After the birth, we struggled mentally due to the effects of witnessing a premature birth. All the staff were fantastic and we cannot thank them enough.

After discharging without our son, our mental health suffered even more. This reached the pinnacle after my wife was readmitted due to infection of c-section and mastitis.

I had never felt lower in my life.

Luckily we were recommended reaching out to Gidget Foundation Australia, and I can honestly say this was the best decision I had ever made.

As someone who had never accessed services like this, I was very uncertain and apprehensive. But from day one I knew this was the best thing for me and my family.

I was lucky enough to be matched with a Clinician who was patient, caring and supportive throughout the whole process. She listened unconditionally and gave me great strategies to help improve my mental health.

Without the help of Gidget Foundation Australia, I would not be the person I am today.

I can proudly say I am the best version of myself and can be the father and husband my family deserve. I’m now the proud father of two and am really excited to see what the future holds for our little family.

‍