Leah’s Road To Recovery

On the 11th of May, Our Beautiful Friend Leah’s life changed in an instant.

Without warning, Leah suffered a ruptured AVM (arteriovenous malformation) in her brain, causing a life-threatening brain bleed. After collapsing at home and losing movement on the left side of her body, she was rushed to hospital before being flown to Christchurch for emergency treatment.

Leah spent several days in an induced coma, and underwent major brain surgery. Today, Leah is in rehabilitation, working incredibly hard to relearn everyday tasks such as walking and using her left arm. While her determination is inspiring, she still faces a long and uncertain road ahead.

Leah was self-employed, and because her AVM was not caused by an accident, ACC is unable to provide support. The sudden loss of income, ongoing expenses, travel costs, and everyday living costs have placed enormous financial pressure on Leah and her family during an already overwhelming time.

Recovery from a brain bleed like this doesn’t happen overnight. Leah is unable to drive for at least 12 months, and there is still so much uncertainty around what the future will look like and when she may be able to return to work.

Anyone who knows Leah knows she the kindest person who’s always willing to lend a hand. We’re asking for your support to help ease some of that burden, so Leah and her family can focus on what matters most, her recovery.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a real difference and be deeply appreciated ❤️