When a child suffers a life-threatening injury, life changes in an instant. There’s no warning. No time to prepare. One moment everything is normal – and the next, your world is turned upside down.
On August 12, 2023, Kaleb’s mum, Toni received the call no parent ever wants to get: Kaleb had been involved in a serious motorbike accident – her heart sank. Panic and fear took over as she raced to the scene, unsure of what she would find.
“It was chaotic. I ran to Kaleb, trying to push through the fear. Seeing him with the paramedics, my body went into shock.” – Toni, Kaleb’s mum.
Kaleb suffered extensive and life-threatening injuries: a significant brain injury, deflated left lung, broken wrist, broken femur, broken jaw, nerve damage to the eye, as well as cuts and grazes over his body. He was rushed to the local hospital, and within hours, airlifted to the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital intensive care unit.
The days that followed were filled with uncertainty and heartbreak. Toni and her family dropped everything and drove through the night from their quiet town of Gracemere, to be by his side in Brisbane. In those early hours, there was no time to think about accommodation, meals, or logistics. The only priority was Kaleb.
That’s when Ronald McDonald Herston House became a lifeline.
“I didn’t think we’d be accepted at first. I thought Ronald McDonald House was only for little kids with planned hospital stays. But from the moment we arrived, they welcomed us with open arms.”
Over the next 404 days, Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland (RMHC SEQ) provided more than just a roof over their heads. It gave Kaleb’s family the stability they needed to stay close, strong, and together. From the Meals from the Heart Program, safe spaces, to emotional support and shared stories of home, RMHC SEQ provided the care and support Kaleb’s family needed during the hardest time of their lives.
As Kaleb’s condition stabilised and his recovery journey began, he was transferred to Brighton Health Campus for specialist rehabilitation. Every day, Toni and her daughter would leave Herston House as soon as visiting hours opened, spending every possible moment with Kaleb until the doors closed. Each night, they returned to the House where staff greeted them with warmth, compassion and genuine care.
When Kaleb was nearing his 18th birthday, RMHC SEQ gifted an unforgettable surprise, a visit from the Brisbane Broncos. Prior to the accident, Kaleb had a passion for everything outdoors – especially football. For a young man who had spent months in a hospital bed, this was more than just a meet-and-greet. It was a cherished moment and a reminder of the life he loved before the accident, and a powerful boost to his spirit during a long and difficult recovery.
Today, Kaleb is back home in Gracemere, Central Queensland. He continues to recover, slowly regaining strength and relearning everyday skills. He’s eating again, communicating through writing and signing, and working toward speaking once more.
Kaleb’s resilience is matched only by the love and determination of his family and the unwavering support of RMHC SEQ.
“We as a family are forever grateful to Ronald McDonald House. All the support and words of encouragement truly made such a difference. They kept our heads high and always made sure we remained strong for Kaleb – thank you.”
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