You may remember Tiahn Vardalos, who we introduced you to in the last newsletter. At just 17 years old, Tiahn spent over 230 days in the hospital recovering from two major abdominal surgeries. Diagnosed with a chronic condition called gastroparesis, Tiahn's stomach muscles are too weak to process food normally. This means she must rely on a surgical jejunostomy tube for nutrients and hydration, connected to a pump feeding into her small intestine for 18 hours each day. While most teens her age are enjoying the freedom of new driver’s licenses and sharing meals with friends, Tiahn faces a unique set of challenges.

Now, Tiahn’s journey has come full circle. After receiving care at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Tiahn has become a passionate donor, committed to giving back and helping other young patients like herself. “It feels like everything has come back around,” Tiahn says. “I received so much help from donations when I was in the hospital, and now I’m able to donate so that someone else can come home. It’s my way of giving back.”

While Tiahn is currently unable to work full-time as she focuses on her studies, she finds joy in donating what she can to SCHF. “It’s nice to be able to give back, even if it’s just a little bit,” she shares. “It makes a difference—whether it’s making a hospital room more comfortable or helping families stay with their kids when they can’t work. Every donation, no matter how small, helps people in ways you might not realise.”

For Tiahn, the decision to become a donor was a personal one. She understands firsthand the impact that donations can have on a patient’s experience. From the care and dedication of the gastroenterology department to special moments like receiving a surprise message from the cast of The Phantom of the Opera—a memory organised by the nursing team—Tiahn’s time in the hospital was made brighter by the generosity of others.

Now, she hopes to inspire others to donate, whether they’ve been touched by the hospital’s care or not. “You might not think your contribution counts, but it does,” Tiahn explains. “It could be the difference between someone being in pain or feeling comfortable, or making sure a family can stay close to their child.”

Tiahn’s remarkable journey from patient to donor is a testament to her resilience, positivity, and compassion.

By donating to SCHF, supporters like you and Tiahn are helping expand testing services, fund critical staff, and ensure that children with chronic conditions receive the care they need.