Doctor
We would like to thank Prof. Linda who supported us through the many years we have spent battling our son’s severe eczema and overcoming my daughter's eczema. My wife and I agreed that we would do everything to follow their recommendations — nightly wet dressings, ointments, steroids every now and then. It was hard and exhausting, and Prof. Linda saw it all. She understood the strain, the pain, and the energy required to stay on top of it. She remained patient with us until we finally accepted the Dupixent treatment. She often asked whether we had enough support for ourselves and reassured us that this was a battle we could win, and that she would keep trying with us.
She wasn’t just a doctor with expertise or authority — she brought us into the journey. We were included, listened to, and always had a voice in our son’s care. She empowered us in the care of my son. We believe she is a compassionate, understanding specialist who guides families through their toughest moments.
Throughout the years, our son’s eczema gradually worsened. His face would turn red all over, or sometimes only his eye orbitals would flare. By August 2026, his entire face was completely red despite nightly wet dressings. The situation became complex as he had a reaction with an antibiotic. This was beginning of the most severe eczema flare he had ever experienced. His skin became extremely dry, cracked, bleeding, and painful. By September 2026, caring for him at home became unmanageable, and he was admitted.
Our son’s severe eczema has been one of the hardest challenges our family has faced. When he was admitted, one doctor — Dr. Sameer under Prof. Linda from the Sydney Children’s OPD Dermatology Clinic, became an incredibly supportive presence during those crucial days.
During this time, Dr. Sameer was one of Prof. Linda's registrars. His care, guidance, and compassion were exceptional. He checked on our son regularly — during admission, after discharge, and even on days when he wasn’t rostered. He listened to all our concerns, analysed them carefully, and answered as best as he could, often consulting with Prof. Linda . We felt his genuine intention and passion to help our son recover as quickly and safely as possible. His kindness and persistence gave us hope. He never rushed us, never dismissed our worries, and always made us feel that our son’s wellbeing truly mattered.
Being listened to
There were moments when we felt overwhelmed, when it seemed like nothing was working even though our son had been on full wet dressings for months. Yet Dr. Sameer always found a way to check in — even on public holidays — just to make sure our son was coping. Our family was stretched thin during this time: takeaway meals, restricted movements, and three to four hours each day spent preparing, applying, and cleaning up the wet dressings. Every time we removed them, we hoped to see even a small improvement. But his face remained red, and the eczema across his body persisted.
We had been waiting for Dupixent to become available later in the year, but the dermatology team — Dr. Sameer, Dr. Jessica, and of course Prof. Linda — were exceptionally instrumental in securing the approvals much earlier. When it was finally approved, Dr. Sameer called us to share the good news. He immediately looked for the earliest possible appointment and assured us that our son would definitely receive the injection. As the day approached, he reminded us gently, even the day before, of the scheduled appointment. My wife and I were both happy and crying at the same time. When the injection was finally given, we felt relieved and hopeful for better days — which have now begun. It has been a week, and we can already see significant improvement and recovery.
We are deeply thankful for Prof. Linda's and Dr. Sameer’s compassion, understanding, and tireless commitment. They didn’t just treat our son’s eczema — they supported our family through one of the most difficult periods of our lives.
Care Staff
We also greatly appreciate Sydney Children’s Hospital for all the care they have given our children since they were born. From the Emergency Department, Paediatric Department, Immunology, and Social Services — with special mention to Georgia Cunningham for her holistic support — to Dietitian Rebecca, the Food Challenge Clinic, Auditory Services, the Eye Clinic, the ERC, and the HITH nurses, especially Dan and Elaine. Every team played a meaningful role in supporting our family, and we are truly grateful.
Team work