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Help Support Christelle in Her Fight Against Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer

$23,800 donated
Given by 185 generous donors in around 9 months

Help Support Christelle in Her Fight Against Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer

Mangawhai, Northland

On Friday, March 28th, 2025, our world was turned upside down when my mother, Christelle, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of thyroid cancer called Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer. This cancer accounts for only 1-2% of thyroid cancer cases but is responsible for a significant percentage of thyroid cancer-related deaths. It is not only rare but also extremely difficult to treat, and her doctor has informed her that she only has months left to live.

At just 52 years young, my mother is facing an overwhelming battle. As you can imagine, she is filled with fear and uncertainty, not knowing if she has days, weeks, or just a few months left with us. She is not ready to leave her children, grandchildren, and the many people who love her. Every moment is precious, and we are doing everything we can to be by her side during this difficult time.

In the midst of this crisis, my family is also facing financial stress. Just two months ago, my parents bought their first home in Mangawhai, using most of their savings and Kiwisaver. Now, as she is expected to be out of work for an extended period while undergoing treatment, we are reaching out for help.

The funds raised from this campaign will provide much-needed financial relief for my parents during this challenging time. The last thing my mother should worry about is finances, and with your support, we can ease that burden so she can focus on what matters most: her health and well-being.

Jandre Opperman's involvement (page creator)

I'm the eldest of two children blessed with an amazing mother. My sister and I wouldn’t be who we are today without her love and strength. She's our rock, role model, and the strongest woman we know. Now, it's our turn to support her in her time of need.

Use of funds

• Post-surgery care.

• Bills and household expenses.

• Funeral expenses, in the unfortunate event that we need to plan for this.

• General care and well-being to ensure she has the support she needs.

• Assistance with mortgage repayments.

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Latest update

Update 12  15 June 2025

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share an update on how Mum has been doing over the past few weeks.

On May 30th, Mum completed her final radiotherapy session. An important milestone after going through three rounds of chemotherapy and 18 sessions of radiotherapy. She’s now back home, focusing on rest and recovery as her body begins to heal from the intensive treatment.

In about 3–4 weeks, she will meet with her oncology team for a scan to assess how things are progressing. Depending on the results, there is a possibility that further chemotherapy may be needed.

A couple of weeks after that, she’ll also see her surgeon, who will complete additional scans to check for any signs of new cancer growth.

The treatment has been incredibly tough on Mum—she’s been experiencing a number of difficult side effects—but through it all, she remains resilient, hopeful, and deeply grateful for the ongoing love and support from everyone.

We’ll continue to keep you updated as she moves through the next stages of her journey.

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Latest donations

Sherwyn Maris Stella
Sherwyn Maris Stella on 06 May 2025
$300
Jandre Opperman

Thank you for your support - it means the world to my family and me ❤️

Jandre Opperman
Monja
Monja on 04 May 2025
$80
Jandre Opperman

Thank you for your support - it means the world to my family and me ❤️

Jandre Opperman
Denise
Denise on 30 Apr 2025
$100
Jandre Opperman

Thank you for your support - it means the world to my family and me ❤️

Jandre Opperman
Debbie Gray
Debbie Gray on 24 Apr 2025
Stay Strong & Don't Give Up xo
Private
Jandre Opperman

Thank you for your support - it means the world to my family and me ❤️

Jandre Opperman
Sarah Staveley
Sarah Staveley on 24 Apr 2025
Sending you aroha ❤️
$20
Jandre Opperman

Thank you for your support - it means the world to my family and me ❤️

Jandre Opperman

Who's involved?

Jandre Opperman's avatar
Created by Jandre Opperman
Christelle Van Heerden's avatar
Paying to a verified bank account of Christelle Van Heerden
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This campaign started on 29 Mar 2025 and ends on 29 Mar 2026.