A Week of Courage: Amarli’s Story

What started as a beautiful Easter weekend turned into a journey no one could have foreseen. Just days ago, Amarli Broome spent a lovely few hours at the lake, surrounded by her family, celebrating Easter — laughing, playing, and soaking in the sunshine. It was a time of simple joy, the kind of moments we all treasure.

But only a few short days later, life took an unimaginable turn.

On Tuesday last week, Amarli was admitted to Wollongong Hospital for what we believed would be a basic treatment for a little "wheeze." We never imagined that within hours, Amarli would be facing the fight of her young life. She endured a respiratory arrest. Her mum, Jade, watched in horror, fearing the worst — fearing that they might lose their precious girl.

But Amarli, true to her incredible spirit, refused to give up.

Thanks to the skilled efforts of the Wollongong Hospital Emergency staff who moved swiftly, saving Amarli's life. The NETS (Newborn and Paediatric Emergency Transport Service) team were called. Amarli was then intubated and transferred to the intensive care unit at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick.

There, doctors diagnosed her with rhinovirus and pneumonia — a cruel and heavy burden for anyone, let alone a little girl.

Today, Amarli remains in ICU — stable, but still needing intensive care and support. And yet, through it all, she has shown nothing but strength, bravery, and the same fighting spirit that has always defined her.

Yesterday marked another incredible milestone: Amarli’s 7th birthday. While it was not the celebration anyone had imagined, the wonderful ICU staff made sure that Amarli’s special day was still filled with love. Family members were able to gather around her bedside for a small but heartfelt celebration, bringing light and laughter into a space that had seen far too many heavy moments.

Amarli's resilience over this past week has been nothing short of extraordinary. Even amidst tubes, monitors, and the steady beeps of machines, her beautiful smile and her fierce spirit have shone through.

This week has reminded all of us — family, friends, and those who hear her story — of just how precious and fragile life is, and how powerful love, support, and courage can be.

We continue to hold Amarli, Jade, and their family close in our hearts, sending every ounce of strength and hope their way.

We know Amarli’s journey isn’t over yet — but if this week has shown us anything, it’s that Amarli is a warrior. And she’s not fighting alone.

Stay strong, beautiful girl. You are so loved :)