Oesophageal Atresia Research: Our Story

At the heart of On Demand Therapies is a deeply personal journey. Our founder, Michelle Howe, was inspired to pursue a career in speech pathology because of her son, Ash. 

Ash was born with tracheo-oesophageal fistula and oesophageal atresia, a rare congenital condition that affects the connection between the oesophagus and the trachea. From his earliest days, he faced challenges with feeding and breathing — and received therapeutic support from a speech pathologist as a baby to aid in his feeding development.

Despite medical advances, the cause of this condition is still not fully understood.

Why Research Matters

Research into oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula is essential to:

- Improve health outcomes for children and adults living with the condition

- Understand why this condition happens in the first place

- Support families through better information, therapy, and care pathways

At On Demand Therapies, we believe in empowering individuals and families through evidence-based care and in supporting the research that will change lives.

Support Hope and Discovery

If you would like to help fund research and support families affected by this rare condition, we encourage you to donate to the Oesophageal Atresia and Tracheo-Oesophageal Fistula Association Australia (OARA). Your contribution helps fund vital research, family support, and awareness initiatives.

👉 Donate here: https://www.oara.org.au/

(OARA is a registered Australian charity focused on supporting affected families and advancing research.)

Thank you for being part of this journey.