Friends of Gabrielle

Gabrielle was initially diagnosed with Aplastic Anaemia in November 2014, further tests show that she has also has Dyskeratosis Congenita (DC). This is a very rare chromosome abnormality (1:million) - she is the third person in NZ to be diagnosed with DC. Aplastic Anemia means that her bone marrow is failing to produce new blood cells which leads to bone marrow failure. Both of these rare disease are life threatening.

Her brother Lachlan (aged 7) was confirmed as a match for a bone marrow transplant, but this is now subject to further genetic testing to check whether he also carries the DC gene. Gabrielle also has a big sister Ruby who is 9.

The family live in Nelson and are required to travel frequently toAuckland for treatment. Gabrielle requires a bone marrow transplant and this will mean she will be in Auckland for at least 3 months. Already this has resulted in loss of income so that either both or at least one parent can be with her at all times.

There is no magic fix for Gabrielle, it is something that will need to be managed and carefully monitored for the rest of her life.

DC is a rare progressive congenital disorder Some of the affects are abnormal skin pigmentation, abnormal finger and toe nails (Gabby's are already in poor condition), and a predispostion to some cancers (specifically: cervical, skin and oral). Some of the manifestations resemble premature aging.

Her parents, Andrew and Megan have been overwhelmed by the support they have received over the last 8 months and are incredibly grateful to everyone for their generosity, love and support.

The money raised will be used by the family to cope financially when Gabrielle is in Auckland for the transplant, as Megan will have to take a significant period of time off work unpaid. Once they return home to Nelson the future is uncertain as to the level of care Gabby will require and the money will ease the financial pressure during this difficult times. It will also be used to fly Ruby and Lachlan (Gabby's brother and sister) up to Auckland to see her during her long time away from home.