Source: SYDNEY CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS NETWORK
3 June 2026 – PNG FAMILY RETURNING HOME AFTER COMPLEX CARE JOURNEY AT THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT WESTMEAD
Six-month-old Sawong Kevin from Papua New Guinea is finally heading home after spending the first months of his life at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.
Sawong was born joined to his twin brother Tom, with their bodies connected across the chest and abdomen. Their condition was rare and very serious, and the care they needed was not available in Papua New Guinea.
As their condition became more critical, an urgent effort was made to bring the boys to Sydney, where specialist teams could help.
From the moment they arrived, staff at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead supported the twins and their family through an incredibly difficult time. Teams worked together to carefully plan and carry out the complex surgery needed to separate them.
Sadly, Tom did not survive. His condition was very severe, and despite every effort, the surgery could not save him.
Sawong has now spent six months recovering in hospital. Over that time, he has grown stronger each day and is now smiling, playing and reaching important milestones for his age, giving real hope for his future.
Chief Executive of the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Cathryn Cox, said the journey had been both challenging and deeply moving for everyone involved.
“This has been an extraordinary and emotional journey for Sawong and his family.
“Our teams felt privileged to care and support them through such a difficult time. Our thoughts remain with the family as they continue to grieve the loss of Tom, while also preparing to take Sawong home,” said Ms Cox.
Head of Transplant Surgery, Dr Gordon Thomas, is internationally recognised for his experience in complex paediatric surgery and conjoined twin separation. This is his third separation. He said seeing Sawong recover had meant a great deal to the team.
“One of the highlights of our day is visiting him.
“When we see him smiling and playing, it reminds us why this work matters so much.
“To know he now has the chance to grow up and live a full and happy life is incredibly special for everyone involved,” said Dr Thomas.
Medical Director and Co-Head of the Grace Centre for Newborn Intensive Care, Professor Nadia Badawi AM, said Sawong’s journey reflects what can be achieved when people come together to support a child and family in need.
“To see a child who has been through so much, now getting ready to go home is something that stays with you.
“This is about more than survival, it’s about giving children the best possible start in life, no matter where they come from,” said Professor Badawi.
Sawong’s return to Papua New Guinea today marks a significant and hopeful next step for him and his family after many months of care, courage and resilience.