Riley received heart tissue

A toddler and a baby in pink swimmers sitting together in a camping chair
The donor and donor’s family were thoughtful enough to donate and save lives. We will be forever grateful.

Riley was a dearly wanted baby for her parents, Samara and Jeff. 

‘We tried for Riley for 7 years. After 2 miscarriages, our special amazing girl was here. She chose us to be her parents, and we will do anything and everything for her.’ 

At their 20-week ultrasound, Samara and Jeff received life-altering news – their unborn daughter had congenital heart disease, meaning she was born with life-threatening heart defects. 

Riley was under medical supervision from the moment she was born, and within 6 hours she was intubated to support her fragile condition. At just 2 weeks old, she underwent her first open-heart surgery. The goal was to repair as many of the defects as possible, but the journey to the operating room was fraught with concerns about her stability. At a mere 2.5 kilograms, Riley's tiny body faced a monumental challenge. 

Before having heart tissue transplanted, Riley’s life depended on medications and a ventilator. Her condition was critical, and every moment was a battle for survival. However, the transplant brought her a new lease on life. Post-transplant, Riley began to thrive, and she started to behave like a typical toddler. Her progress was nothing short of miraculous. 

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Riley’s recovery is her ability to reach developmental milestones. Although she achieves them a bit later than her peers, due to a brain injury caused by lack of blood flow, she is making incredible strides. Riley’s determination and resilience shine through every achievement. 

The family think often of Riley’s tissue donor. They are acutely aware that their daughter’s life was saved because another family made the selfless decision to donate. This act of kindness and generosity is something they are forever grateful for. 

When asked why others should register as organ and tissue donors, Riley’s parents have a simple yet profound message: ‘You don’t need to take it with you. Give it to someone so they can continue living.’ 

We want all Australians to talk about organ and tissue donation. If you want to be a donor, make sure you tell your family and friends.

Registering is easy and only takes one minute. All you need is your phone, Medicare card and one minute to register.

It doesn’t matter how old you are, your medical history, your lifestyle, what country you’re from or how healthy you are — you can still register as an organ and tissue donor.

The Organ and Tissue Authority acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to elders both past and present.

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