Tom McDonald and wife share awful baby news as AFL world sends outpouring of support
The Melbourne Demons premiership player has gone public with the heartbreaking news.
AFL player Tom McDonald and wife Ruby have shared the devastating news that their baby was stillborn this week. The Melbourne Demons player revealed the heartbreaking news to fans on social media on Wednesday, saying baby girl Goldie was stillborn at 20 weeks.
“At 11:55pm on Sunday night, 21st of January our gorgeous Goldie Joan McDonald was born sleeping and became our angel above,” the couple wrote alongside a photo of them holding Goldie. “Watching over us and her siblings until we meet again in wonderland.
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“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. 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.”
AFL world wraps arms around Tom McDonald and wife
Tom and Ruby have two other kids together - Bella (4) and Leo (2). The 31-year-old McDonald has played 210 games throughout his career and was part of the Demons team that won a drought-breaking premiership in 2021.
Former Demons captain Nathan Jones commented: "Thinking of you guys and sending you all the love and strength." McDonald's current teammate Christian Petracca simply posted three love heart emojis, as did Jack Viney's wife Charlotte.
Former AFL player Nick O'Brien wrote: "Really heartbroken for you both and your family to hear this, our family are thinking of you and your gorgeous Goldie." One fan added: "Sending our love to you and Tom, Ruby, wonderful people and parents." Another wrote: "Very sorry to hear this. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys."
McDonald has kicked 165 goals in his 12-year career with the Demons. The key forward was the club's leading goal-scorer in 2018. Since the premiership in 2021, the Demons have lost four-straight finals games. They've been knocked out of the finals in straight-sets two years running.
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