Mount Isa Family

Sam and Ben's Journey

For Mount Isa mum Kristen, the arrival of twins Sam and Ben came much earlier than expected. Born at just 25 weeks at Townsville University Hospital, the boys began their lives in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit before continuing their care in the Special Care Nursery. 

Their hospital journey lasted 99 days. With the family far from home, those weeks were shaped by hospital visits, waiting and the hope that came with each new day. Through it all, the most important thing Kristen could do was stay close to her boys. 

Ronald McDonald House North Australia gave her a place to stay within a short walk of the hospital. That closeness meant Kristen could see Sam and Ben every day, without the added pressure of finding accommodation or travelling back and forth from Mount Isa. 

For premature babies facing a long stay in hospital, family is part of the team behind them. Sam and Ben had expert medical care, but they also had their mum nearby - ready to show up, offer comfort and surround them with the familiar love of family. 

For 99 days, the family's journey unfolded between the House and the hospital. Having a safe base nearby gave Kristen somewhere to rest before making the short walk back to her boys. It kept the family connected at a time when distance could easily have made an already difficult experience even harder. 

Sam and Ben were two little heroes taking on a very big beginning. But heroes should never have to face the hard days alone. Behind them was a mum who could be there each day, and behind their family was a community of supporters helping make that closeness possible. 

Your support helps families stay near their children during long hospital journeys, so parents can focus on the moments that matter most: being present, staying connected and facing each day together.