Stroke

In early June 2022, my daughter Tiana, 10 years old at the time, experienced a massive stroke that paralysed the entire left half of her body. It was caused by a ruptured cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM), something we had known of and feared for the previous 2 years.

For the second time in her life, Tiana had to have life-saving brain surgery. The first time had been to ligate an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) when she was just 5 months old. This time, it was to remove the bleeding AVM, and it was a much more dangerous operation. The difficulty of the procedure meant there was a significant risk of her suffering yet another stroke during surgery. However, we had no choice but to place her life in the hands of the RCH staff again and hope for the best.

Surgery

Somehow, Tiana’s surgeons miraculously managed to remove the AVM without any complications, in an 11-hour operation. It had been the hardest day of our lives. Although we were grieving for everything Tiana had lost and the things we feared she might never be able to do, RCH had provided us with the most precious gifts by saving her life and giving us hope for the future.

Rehabilitation

I stayed with Tiana at RCH as she began an intensive program of speech, occupational and physiotherapy. She had to learn how to do everything again, including turning her head, sitting up, smiling, eating, drinking and walking. It was hard work for her, but the incredible positivity of the RCH staff meant she never felt like giving up. Tiana was also involved in the art and music therapy programs, and she looked forward to every one of these sessions.

Discharge

On August 18, 2022, we celebrated Tiana’s recovery and watched with pride as she walked out of Kelpie ward, aided only by an orthotic, with a balloon in hand (video here). After 2.5 months at RCH, we were finally able to return home.

Today is the anniversary of this special date for us, and it is our family's new tradition to celebrate by raising funds for the Good Friday Appeal.

Now

Tiana, now 13, is enjoying life as a year 8 student, and has resumed playing piano and a modified violin. She plays both instruments in a unique way, adapted to her abilities. She is a member of Melbourne Youth Orchestras’ Alexandra Cameron Strings ensemble, and loves going to rehearsals and practising at home. 

Her biggest achievements so far include:

• Receiving the Creative Award at Stroke Foundation's 2024 National Stroke Awards.

• Performed violin duet with Evangeline Victoria at Good Friday Appeal 2025 (video here).

Occupational and physiotherapy are still a big part of her weekly routine, and she continues to make great progress with her rehabilitation. 

Thank you RCH!

Although Tiana’s stroke has made many things difficult for her, she does not allow her disability to stop her from chasing her dreams. Tiana has gone on to achieve so much, all thanks to the tireless work of all the staff at RCH, who have given her so many opportunities.

Please help us show our appreciation to RCH and consider donating and sharing our story, so that RCH can continue their important work in giving children like Tiana the chance not only to survive, but also thrive. Thank you so much for your support!  

- Vincent