Jhanvi has spent most of her childhood in hospital.
Jhanvi was born in Adelaide in 2021. After it was found that her mother, Vino, had a Ventricular Septal Defect, she was delivered by C section. At birth, Jhanvi was diagnosed with Biliary Atresia – a rare condition which blocks the bile ducts, causing damage to the liver.
In infancy, Jhanvi underwent a procedure to restore bile flow. But her journey didn’t end there. Her liver disease progressed, and she required a transplant. Devastatingly, following the transplant, she developed Post Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder – a serious disorder linked to the post-surgery treatment.
Every step of the way, Jhanvi’s family has been by her side. Because when a child is sick, family stays.
Multiple surgeries, testing, scans, and specialist engagements meant Jhanvi’s parents had to travel from their home in Robinvale, Victoria to the Royal Melbourne Children’s hospital and the Adelaide Women’s and Children’s hospital. They navigated financial strain, being separated, work commitments, and an ongoing Visa application – all with no family in Australia to support them.
Needing a place to stay in Melbourne, the family found Ronald McDonald House North Fitzroy, and moved in while Jhanvi underwent treatment. Looking back on the years that followed, Vino jokes “I’m more comfortable here than my own house”.
The family found support in all of our essential services – from our shuttle bus, to our well-equipped kitchen. “I’m able to cook anything I want, to make it feel like home”. Jhanvi enjoyed our Learning Program immensely, including science activities and our preschool program. “The teacher even guides me” says Vino.
“All the staff recognise Jhanvi. She always runs to them. They listen, they comfort, they help.”
A highlight for the family was celebrating Jhanvi’s fourth birthday at the House. In the depths of navigating illness and financial hardship, her parents needed help throwing a party. So, our staff and volunteers “made her birthday dream come true”. They organised the cake, decorations and games, and invited other families to join. “Jhanvi wished to celebrate all her birthdays with them, even if she’s not in hospital.” The family formed lifelong friendships with other families staying at the House, who continue to visit them, pray for them, and send gifts for Jhanvi.
Currently, massive medical exploration is underway to monitor Jhanvi’s Post Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder, which has involved bone marrow biopsy, endoscopy, colonoscopy, and multiple other intrusive tests.
But Jhanvi stays strong, knowing her family is close. Because when families are together, they cope better.
“Wherever Jhanvi is, that’s my home. She is my home.”
