Matilda's 1st Birthday

By Jacob Peacey

I'm fundraising for Ronald McDonald House!

Last year, our world was forever changed when our amazing little girl arrived two months early, a tiny but mighty 3lb 3oz warrior who stole our hearts from the moment we laid eyes on her. She has filled our lives with so much joy and love, and we are incredibly proud of the remarkable little squish she has become today.

But when we reflect on the past year, we can't help but think about how things could have gone differently. Our daughter, Matilda, was born prematurely following medical complications that required both her and her mum to stay at Invercargill's Southland Hospital for almost five weeks. It was a trying time for us as a family, but the staff, midwives, doctors, nurses, and volunteers were simply amazing. Despite working in an overworked and understaffed maternity ward, they provided us with exceptional care, dedication, and support, and we will forever be grateful for the love and encouragement they showed us.

This is why we have decided to dedicate Matilda's first birthday to a beautiful cause that is very close to our hearts. During our time in Invercargill, the Ronald McDonald House was our home away from home. It provided us with a safe and comfortable space to regroup and recoup, and the opportunity to be near our daughter 24 hours a day. They do this for thousands of families every year, and we've heard countless stories from other parents about the incredible work they do every day. The organization is staffed by volunteers, supported by local businesses, and funded by generous donations from everyday New Zealanders.

We want to express our gratitude to the Ronald McDonald House by raising funds for this exceptional organization, so they can continue to provide essential support and care to families going through similar experiences. Join us in celebrating Matilda's first year of life by making a donation to this worthy cause. Together, we can make a difference and show our appreciation to the amazing people who helped us through one of the most challenging times of our lives.

Happy Birthday Squish!

Love,

Mum & Dad

Thank you to my Sponsors

$156

Nanna Peacey & Grandad Griffiths

Such a worthy cause. So so grateful this facility was there for Matilda and you guys. Keep up the great work. Love you so much Tilly. Can't wait to see you again cheeky chops xxx

$105

Kieran Seed

$52.50

Polly & Paul

Happy birthday little princess… you make the world a little brighter and make so many people smile ♥️

$36

Aunty Sara

It was wonderful to meet Matilda at Christmas - best of luck with the fundraising

$26.25

Sarah Brazel

Happy first birthday Matilda! It's wonderful to hear how far you've come in the last year. Congrats Mum & Dad on making it through year 1 as parents.

$21

Lara H

The care that dedicated staff offer babies and their parents in places like this are amazing and deserve so much support. Happy first time round the moon to your daughter and happy anniversary to you both on this parenting milestone too!

$21

Kristin & Parker

Happy 1st birthday Tilly, lots of love ❤️

$21

Prue Allan

Happy Birthday Matilda!

$20.80

Gina Deval+liam O’connor

Lots of love from Gina and Liam, happy birthday! Xx

$20

Heidi And Maxwell

Sending love and light to the three of you always. The world is lucky to have Matilda!

$15.60

Patricia Clee

$10

Charlotte Dempsey

Happy birthday Matilda! 🤍