The Irish family was equally shocked and relieved when it received the news that marked the end of its four-year battle with the Immigration Department.
‘‘There was an instant flood of tears and relief when I got off the phone to the lawyer,’’ Mrs Hyde said.
‘‘I immediately called Anthony to tell him and to get him to double check I wasn’t hearing things incorrectly.
‘‘We can’t believe it. It hasn’t sunk in. We cracked open some champagne and had a small celebration with some friends, but it’s been a four-year battle so we’re planning a bigger celebration.’’
The Hydes were facing removal from Australia because their son, who was born here four years ago, has cystic fibrosis.
More than 100000 Australians formally supported the family’s bid to remain here, as did local politicians.
In 2015 the Hydes submitted an expression of interest for permanent residency and received a first-round offer to formally apply on August 3 the same year, four weeks before their son was due to be born.
As part of the application, newborn Darragh had to undergo a medical assessment, where his cystic fibrosis, an inherited life-threatening disorder that damages the lungs and digestive system, was diagnosed.
The couple’s permanent residency applications were immediately rejected because, in the opinion of the Immigration Department, Darragh had a severe case of CF and would be a burden to the state.
Mrs Hyde said Darragh’s medical care was paramount and Ireland could not offer the same level of expertise he was accessing in Australia.
On top of that, Australia has been home to her and her husband for a decade and it would be emotionally devastating to be torn out of the community which has embraced them.
Mrs Hyde said the support of the community and local MPs made her family’s dream a reality.
‘‘The outpouring of support has been amazing. So many people got behind us and helped to get our story in front of the immigration minister,’’ she said.
‘‘Everyone has been so kind and respectful of our situation and we can’t thank them enough.
‘‘We can now make plans for the future. Our next big step is looking at buying a house and having something of our own.
‘‘But for the short term, it will be all about celebrating and enjoying the relief.’’
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