On April 4th, 2025, three-year-old Irie-Jade was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Just days later, she was airlifted from Hastings Hospital to Starship Children’s Hospital in Auckland, where she remains with her māmā, undergoing her first round of chemotherapy. Doctors have said to prepare for two years of ongoing treatment. This sudden diagnosis has been an emotional rollercoaster for our usually happy, healthy little girl. The reality of living in a hospital, being separated from whānau, and trying to keep things afloat back home has taken a huge toll—mentally, emotionally, and financially. Irie-Jade’s two brothers, aged 6 and 1, are being lovingly cared for by their Aunty Kasey, but the cost of juggling it all is quickly adding up.

While we are so grateful for the free treatment available here in Aotearoa, there are many hidden costs that come with long-term hospital care—travel, food, bills, and simply trying to stay connected as a family. Right now, Irie-Jade is confined to the four walls of her hospital room. Her immune system is so fragile she can’t leave her room to visit the playroom or walk the ward. Her visitors are limited—because even a mild cold could become life-threatening. If all goes well, the next step will be moving to Ronald McDonald House for a short time before beginning regular trips from Hastings to Auckland for treatment.

Any support, big or small, means the world to this whānau. We are deeply grateful for every bit of awhi sent their way. Help lift the weight for Irie-Jade’s whānau as they face the fight of their lives. 💜 Donate here.