Diagnose and Conquer - Support Grace's Brain Gain

Dear whānau,

I’m reaching out to ask for your support. I’ve recently enrolled at Ara Polytechnic to pursue study in community support and service work. This is the pathway I believe will allow me to give back and help make the world a better place.

I’m seeking answers after struggling for years with focus, memory, and overwhelm. A specialist has advised me to be referred for ADHD testing as soon as possible.

A diagnosis could be life-changing. It would help me understand myself more and access support so I can succeed. The only barrier is cost—specialist appointments are expensive, especially on a student budget.

If you’re able to contribute, even a little, it would bring me closer to getting this support and setting myself up for success.

This journey is deeply personal. My late 20s were marked by immense loss—I lost three of my closest friends in four years, leaving me without much of a support network. The past decade has been a struggle, but I’ve worked hard to rebuild myself, my confidence, and my sense of worth.

Studying at Ara is the turning point. I will graduate in September 2026, find meaningful work, and live my purpose. Your support—whether work opportunities, financial contributions, or encouragement—will help me achieve.

I can’t express how grateful I am that you’ve read this far. Knowing you care about my journey lightens the load. I’d love to catch up with each and every one of you so please stay in touch.

Arohanui,

Grace xx