Hepburn Burras FNC president, Jason Dooley, has started a GoFundMe project for club netball stalwart, Maddy Kelly and her partner, Sam Burns, who have found themselves with an instant family of four children as a result of tragic circumstances.
Sam’s sister, Corrina, had taken her four children to South Australia in an attempt to escape domestic violence. Sadly, she took her own life last April while her children were at school. Sam was aware of Corrina’s situation but was prevented from visiting to support her by border restrictions in place last year.
Sam travelled to South Australia to visit the children after his sister’s death. He initially took custody of the of the older children but now has custody of the younger children as well. He and Maddy have agreed to raise the children at their home in country Victoria and have initiated formal adoption proceedings.
Jason said, “I think it’s just awesome what Maddy and Sam are doing. They’ve stepped up and said, ‘We’re doing this’. It’s very brave of them but they’re committed to those kids.”
If you, or someone you know, needs help, call:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
- MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
- Headspace on 1800 650 890
- QLife on 1800 184 527
Family and domestic violence support is available from:
- Respect national helpline on 1800 737 732
- Women’s Crisis Line on 1800 811 811
- Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491
- Lifeline (24 hour crisis line): 131 114
- Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277
