This year’s appeal, though, is extra special for Warragul paramedic Jacob Every and his wife, Erin, as their two-year-old son Finley was announced as one of the faces of the Good Friday Appeal.
Finley was born with myelomeningocele, a severe form of spina bifida.
Within the first 48 hours of his life, he underwent his first major spinal surgery, reducing the severity of his condition.
Now two years old, he has already undergone four major surgeries, various MRIs, x-rays and scope studies.
Mr Every said his son showed strength, resilience and cheekiness, not allowing his condition to suppress his personality.
“He’s the bravest young boy I know, and he’s getting stronger every day thanks to the continued treatment from the RCH,” he said.
“They’ve made our family feel welcomed and comforted, and listened closely to our concerns — Finley wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them.”
AV staff have rallied behind the Every family and joined the fundraising efforts, with staff participating in the 3AW Climb for the Kids event on March 1 and the Good Friday Appeal Run for the Kids on March 17.
AV chief executive Jane Miller said she was proud of Mr Every and his family for sharing their story and encouraged people to support AV’s fundraising efforts for the Good Friday Appeal this year.
“The appeal is close to the hearts of so many at AV and families in our communities,” she said.
“The RCH has a profound impact on families across the state, and I’m proud of our people, paramedics, first responders and corporate staff for supporting the Good Friday Appeal again this year.”
To donate to AV’s Good Friday Appeal Fundraiser, go to https://fundraise.goodfridayappeal.com.au/fundraisers/ambulancevictoria
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