- Couple shared the devastating news on Instagram
- AFL identities & fans were quick to pay their respects
- Every day in Australia, six babies are stillborn
Melbourne Demons veteran Tom McDonald and his wife Ruby have revealed their heartbreak after their baby daughter Goldie was stillborn.
The shattered couple shared the devastating news on Instagram, posting a moving tribute showing them cradling their baby in hospital.
‘At 11.55pm on Sunday night, 21st of January our gorgeous Goldie Joan McDonald was born sleeping and became our angel above,’ the caption read.
‘Watching over us and her siblings until we meet again in wonderland.
‘We are truly heartbroken to have lost our baby girl at 20 weeks, but know that she will be forever and always with us all.
Melbourne Demons veteran Tom McDonald and his wife Ruby are shattered after their baby daughter Goldie (pictured together) was stillborn
The couple are parents to Bella, four, (pictured, front right at her birthday party) and Leo, two
The post from Ruby McDonald saw a number of football figures pay their respects, including champion midfielder Christian Petracca and Demons legend Nathan Jones
‘Thank you to everyone who has and continues to support our family, we will never be able to thank you enough for your kindness, love and care.
‘Please be patient with us as we navigate life without our Goldie girl in our arms.’
The post saw a number of football figures pay their respects, including champion midfielder Christian Petracca and Demons legend Nathan Jones.
The couple are parents to daughter Bella, four, and son Leo, two.
McDonald made his senior debut in 2011 for the Dees after he was recruited from the 2010 AFL draft.
He has remained a one-club player, winning a premiership in 2021.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, six babies are stillborn across the nation each day, affecting more than 2000 families each year.