Myles Ashley Bavister, a much-loved son, brother, grandson, and nephew, stopped breathing in his cot during the morning of Friday, 11th October 2019.  His parents, Ash and Alex, gave CPR until ambulances arrived and he was taken to Cairns Base Hospital.  It was quickly ascertained that he was very poorly and he was airlifted down to Townsville Hospital, which has a specialised paediatric intensive care unit.  The family followed by road for the 350 kilometre drive. 

The family had to wait until the swelling on Myles’ brain subsided so an MRI scan could be taken on Monday.  Very sadly his results revealed he had been deprived of oxygen for too long and there was no brain activity meaning he was entirely dependent on life support.   

On Wednesday the heartbreaking decision was made to withdraw life support.  Myles passed away peacefully at the age of four & a half months in the arms of Ash & Alex. There are no words really to further describe how heartbreaking it has been for all our family and close friends, particularly Ash, Alex, and Myles’ brave, big brother Theo.   

The family had been advised before leaving Cairns for the long and anxious four-hour drive to Townsville, that the Ronald MacDonald House Charities in Townsville would be able to provide accommodation for the family upon arrival.   To have this amazing facility, within the hospital grounds, made available to us at this time felt like a small beacon of light.  It continued to be a haven for the family for six days and nights, for short periods when they were each resting between taking turns at Myles’ bedside.

In memory of our darling boy and with the help of family and friends both in Australia and overseas, we would really like to raise AUD$50k This will sponsor a room at the Ronald MacDonald House in Townsville for 10 years, ($5k/year) meaning other families will have access to these incredible facilities.

Without the kindness and generosity of people who have donated in the past, our time in Townsville would have been even harder. Every donation will make a difference so if you can help us reach this target in any way, please do. 

Thank you for your support.