Help Steph and Zac through a parents worst nightmare

Little Theo Richard Abernethy was born early at 31 weeks via emergency c-section on 15 March 2026. Soon after his arrival, he was airlifted to Wellington, where he was cared for by the incredible staff at Wellington Hospital NICU, while mum and dad stayed nearby at Ronald McDonald House.

Theo was born with a complex set of symptoms resulting from injuries to his brain during labour. While his prognosis was initially hopeful, things sadly took a turn for the worst, and he passed away early in the morning on 27 March, being cuddled and loved by mum and dad.

The last couple of weeks have understandably taken a deep toll on Steph, Zac, and the wider family. With time taken off work, the cost of ferrying whānau between Wellington and Palmerston North, and the heartbreaking task of planning a funeral when they should have been bringing their baby boy home, they could really use all the support they can get right now.

The money raised on this page will go directly to Steph and Zac to help cover day-to-day costs during this time, as well as funeral expenses for wee Theo.

Thank you from all of us. Your support truly means the world.