The Te Heke Family

When Joeleen and Taina learned their son Dallas would be born with a serious congenital heart condition, their world changed overnight. Their lives quickly became shaped by uncertainty, long hospital stays, specialist appointments and the emotional weight of caring for a child with complex medical needs.

Diagnosed before birth with a life-threatening cardiac condition, Dallas has spent much of his early life in and out of Sydney Children’s Hospital. Every decision the family has made since has centred on one goal: giving him the best chance at a healthy future.

This month, the Te Heke family received a safe, reliable 2015 Fiat Freemont to help ease some of the daily pressures that come with Dallas’ ongoing treatment.

A Family Rebuilding Their Lives Far From Home

To access the specialist care Dallas needs, the family made the difficult decision to relocate from their home in Leeton to Sydney. It meant leaving behind their support networks, community and stability.

As Joeleen shared, 

“Everything is just so expensive in Sydney, but we had no choice. Dallas needed to be here.”

The move brought financial strain, housing instability and countless moments of uncertainty. Yet the family continued to push forward, raising their children in the middle of hospitals, waiting rooms and nonstop appointments.

Their resilience has been constant.

"We are a proud family,” Joeleen said. “We tried to do everything ourselves, but eventually we had to accept help. It is amazing how many people are willing to help when you are open to receiving it.”

Why a Reliable Car Matters So Much

For families managing complex medical needs, transport is not a convenience. It is essential.

There were many days when Joeleen had to take Dallas to hospital on public transport, often when he was unwell, because their old hatchback was unreliable or unavailable.

"Rushing to the hospital on the train when he is unwell is very hard,” she said.

Dallas’ condition can change quickly, and urgent hospital visits are a regular part of the family’s life. A reliable vehicle like the Fiat Freemont provides the stability and independence needed to respond quickly when he requires care.

The vehicle also gives the family more flexibility in everyday life, from school drop-offs to groceries, appointments and staying connected to the people who support them.

Strength, Love and a Community That Shows Up

This journey reflects the reality for many families caring for a child with a serious illness. Emotional strain. Financial pressure. Constant appointments. A need to stay endlessly adaptable.

Through every challenge, they have shown resilience, humility and a deep commitment to their children.

A Little More Ease on a Difficult Road

The road ahead for the Te Heke family is still long. Every bit of support helps. The hope is that the 2015 Fiat Freemont makes hospital trips smoother, specialist appointments less stressful and everyday life more manageable.

Families like this remind us how much strength people find in difficult circumstances, and how meaningful practical support can be as they continue their journey.

For those who would like to offer additional support to the family, a GoFundMe page has been set up by their community. You can learn more or contribute at:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/jo-taina-and-their-beautiful-family