A Mother’s Wish: Cherie’s Journey to Cherish Every Moment

Cherie is one of the kindest, most humble, and hardworking people you could ever meet. She’s a devoted mother, sister, and daughter who has always put others first.

A solo mum to three amazing young men, Cherie works part-time, is a life member of Special Olympics (over 30 years!), and is studying for a Bachelor of Counselling. An active member of a local parents’ group supporting families with special needs.

Her three boys are incredible kind, caring, and generous young men who each live with intellectual disabilities.

• Caleb works at JR’s Landscaping and loves playing Ten-Pin bowling for Taupō Special Olympics. He also plays lawn bowls and is a proud member of the Taupō Lawn Bowls Club.

• Jaydn attends Whare Mahana at Tauhara College, where he’s found a wonderful community of friends and teachers. He also competes in Ten-Pin bowling with Special Olympics.

• Jackson, the youngest, also attends Whare Mahana and thrives with the support of his friends and teachers. He too is part of the Special Olympics Ten-Pin team.

Cherie has always been a pillar of strength for her family. For the past six years, she’s helped care for her autistic brother alongside her dad, ever since her mum passed away from the very same disease Cherie now faces. Her dad continues to support Cherie and the boys, but this news has hit him hard too.

The Taupō Special Olympics team, including Cherie’s boys and brother, are scheduled to travel to Christchurch in early December for the National Summer Games.