Christmas Appeal: your generosity will help families

The Westmead Medical Research Foundation (WMRF) is encouraging people to dig deep and donate to the annual Christmas Appeal.

WMRF Head of Development Joe Conneely said the WMRF Christmas Appeal helps fund vital life-saving medical research and healthcare at Westmead Hospital.

“This year, we share the story of Denver and her son Carson who are here today, thanks to the brilliant work of our talented clinicians and staff at Westmead Hospital,” Mr Conneely said.

Denver lives a life like many other young women in the suburbs with her partner but suffers from a rare condition – biliary atresia – which affects one in 20,000 people worldwide.

“The condition scars and blocks the bile duct and causes liver damage. Until recently, women with biliary atresia were advised that becoming pregnant might lead to a deterioration in their condition.

“Luckily for Denver, who has been under the care of world-renowned hepatologist, Professor Jacob George and his team at Westmead Hospital, her condition was treated and stabilised and she could explore the possibility of starting a family of her own.

“Denver was under the care of the Westmead Institute for Maternal Foetal Medicine which provides services and support for women and families who undergo a complex pregnancy.

“This team worked together with the gastroenterology and hepatology team to address all aspect of care are centred on Denver.

“Thanks to the expertise of specialist teams at Westmead Hospital, Denver and her partner Cody, welcomed baby Carson into the world in October this year.

“I encourage you to support the brilliant work and research performed at Westmead Hospital and give generously – this will help save and improve lives for people in our communities.”

To donate, visit: https://web.thankq.net.au/wmrfa/donation/donate/