Chance to help in time of need

THE Far North’s hearts go out to the Redlynch Valley family and their sick 11-week-old baby.

Not only has mum, Bonnie-Lea Cahill, and dad, Jordan Sievers, had to cope with Oliver’s many health complications, including a serious heart defect, but the breadwinner has lost his job.

It took weeks for the persistent mum to get a true diagnosis of her baby’s condition and to their shock he suffers from a hole in his heart, torticollis, fluid in his lung, a chest infection and an enlarged liver and heart.

With help from Cairns Hospital, the family now has the answers and so begins the long journey for

Oliver’s wellbeing.

Ms Cahill knew something was wrong and wouldn’t give up getting to the bottom of his illnesses.

They have had to contend with a lot.

An unsettled baby crying for up to 18 hours a day. Then he was failing to put on weight and suffering from severe influx.

It was thought he might be allergic to cow’s milk so a different milk formula was used to no avail.

The couple spent two weeks in hospital after a visit to the emergency department in a frantic bid to get the best possible treatment.

Thankfully Oliver is now happier and doing well and the family is preparing for open heart surgery in Brisbane later this year but needs the community’s help.

Until Mr Sievers can find flexibility with employment for his son’s treatment, a GoFundMe page has been established to help with medical expenses.

The Far Northern community is sure to rise to the occasion.

Nick Dalton Deputy editor