In 2022, the Nicholls family’s world was shattered when their daughter and sister, Olivia (Liv), passed away unexpectedly in her sleep.
At just 16 years old, Liv was a bright, energetic young woman with her whole future ahead of her.
The day before her passing had been like any other. Liv had attended school, where she had received an A+ for an English oral exam where she spoke on the topic of ‘gendered parenting’. Just a week earlier, she had been named ‘best and fairest’ player in her undefeated netball team. A natural leader, she mentored young students, led school camps and sang in the choir.
Unfortunately, despite months of investigation, the coroner was unable to determine a cause of death. Outwardly healthy and full of life, Liv’s sudden passing left her family and friends devastated.
“Liv was a ray of sunshine,” says her mother, Annette King. “She lifted people up, made them smile and she stood up for others. Losing her so suddenly, without any explanation, has shattered us beyond words.”
Determined to honour Liv’s memory and prevent other families from enduring the same heartbreak, the Nicholls family now raise awareness for Sudden Unexplained Death and Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS). Every year, around 24,000 Australians die from sudden cardiac death, including up to three young people each week, many who die with no cause of death determined.
“Research at the Centenary Institute is crucial in uncovering the causes of sudden cardiac death in young people and preventing tragedies like Liv’s,” says Mark Nicholls, Liv’s father.
“We need answers. Understanding why this happens is the first step in protecting other young lives. No family should have to experience the pain we live with every day.”