Bringing new life into the world is one of the most joyous moments a human being can experience, but for the Harris Family, this time quickly turned from what should have been their happiest memory into one of their hardest and most harrowing.

Just nine days after the birth of their beautiful baby girl, the Harris Family’s other three-year old daughter, Willow-Rose, fell suddenly ill.  In may of 2023, Willow-Rose was diagnosed with Rhinovirus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Pneumonia.

Admitted to Mackay Base Hospital with 42mls of fluid on her little lungs, Willow-Rose bravely endured test after test, breathing tubes and feeding supports until she was admitted to ICU and transferred to Townsville University Hospital by plane. 

With a newborn baby in tow and two other children, the sudden need to travel for Willow-Rose’s immediate care meant that the Harris Family had to be separated.

“Leaving our eldest daughter (12) back home in Mackay was hard. The Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia was fast and reliable in supporting our family! My 5-year old son continuously said how staying at the house was ‘the best holiday ever’!” Mum, Tayla-Rose said.

“Even though his little sister was so unwell, he was so at ease with enjoyment!”

Amidst their stay at the house, little Willow-Rose celebrated her fourth birthday, and thanks to the generosity of our donors, she was given some gifts to make her extra-special day as bright as can be!

Thinking back to those moments, Tayla-Rose speaks on how she and her husband felt warm and welcome throughout the duration of their stay, and revels in how the house has something for everybody to enjoy and be a part of.

“Eva, our mentor, was always so willing to help and made us feel so at ease. She greeted us with such loving and open arms and always shared a laugh with us!” Tayla-Rose said.

“We thank you all from the bottom of our hearts, Ronald McDonald House Charities!”