Irish couple launch fundraiser after their baby arrives 13 weeks early on Miami F1 getaway

A Wexford couple's dream trip to the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Miami took an unexpected turn when their baby, a boy named Oscar, arrived 13 weeks early, despite being reassured it was safe to fly early in the pregnancy.

Now stuck in an unfamiliar country with mounting medical bills on the rise, the new parents have set up a GoFundMe. 

Edel and Thomas Dunphy's long-awaited holiday was supposed to be a "a precious escape" for the pair before their journey into parenthood. However, just hours after landing in Miami, they were rushed to hospital following sudden complications with Edel's pregnancy.

This resulted in baby Oscar being born via an emergency c-section just over three months before his due date. 

Taking to the GoFundMe page, Mr Dunphy shared insight into the tough times ahead: "Our beautiful son was born 13 weeks premature. Tiny, but fiercely fighting. He is now in the NICU where he will need to stay for the next 10 to 12 weeks. The first few days are critical as he undergoes constant monitoring and care." 

READ MORE: 'Confiscate the car!' Gardai catch driver using their phone and also tested for cocaine

Despite being overjoyed that their son arrived safely and is in good hands with the medical team, the couple are now faced with the reality of arranging nearby accommodation, navigating documentation for Oscar and eventually securing a safe route back home to Ireland, along with the potentially mounting hospital bills.

Continuing, Mr Dunphy said, "We are reaching out with humble hearts to ask for your support during this challenging time. Any contribution, no matter the size, will help us cover the overwhelming costs ahead: accommodation, transport, baby care essentials and the complex process of repatriation.

"We are holding onto hope and with your help, we can focus on what matters most—bringing Oscar safely home," he concluded. 

The couple have already received €12, 475 in donations out of their €30,000 goal. 

To donate to Edel, Thomas and baby Oscar, you can click here.