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Help Support Christelle in Her Fight Against Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer

$19,800 donated
Given by 154 generous donors in 4 days

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.

Latest update

Update image

Update 3   1 April 2025

Good morning everyone,

Yesterday, Mum underwent surgery and came out stronger than ever. Seeing her after the operation was the first glimmer of happiness we’ve felt throughout this entire journey. She was resilient, and proud of herself for facing one of her biggest fears, and even in the midst of it all, we shared laughter, and tears, and created new memories.

Unfortunately, this morning brought difficult news. Mum spoke with her doctor, who confirmed that the cancer is extremely aggressive. He now believes she has significantly less time than we had initially hoped.

She remains in the ICU, still unable to speak, breathing through a tube, and relying on a feeding tube for the foreseeable future. The medical team wants to begin radiation therapy as soon as possible, condensing it into a two-week treatment plan instead of the usual seven weeks.

This has been an incredibly emotional time for all of us, but Mum continues to show incredible strength. We are so grateful for the love, support, and generosity you’ve all shown. Your kindness means everything, and we will keep you updated as we learn more.

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Latest donations

Renee
Renee 14 hours ago
Sending love to you and the family. x
Private
Jandre Opperman

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

Jandre Opperman
Laubscher's
Laubscher's 14 hours ago
Private
Jandre Opperman

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

Jandre Opperman
Guest Donor
Guest Donor 17 hours ago
Private
Jandre Opperman

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

Jandre Opperman
Greg
Greg 23 hours ago
$100
Jandre Opperman

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

Jandre Opperman
Danica
Danica 1 day ago
Private
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.