Leanne's Life-Saving Surgery

Leanne is a devoted mother to her 8yo and 4yo children, a loving wife, and friend who shows up without hesitation. For eight years she has taught in South Africa and New Zealand, from ECE to secondary, driven by a passion for children’s safety, education, and every child’s success. Alongside full-time teaching, she is also a talented family photographer, known for her care, dedication, and meticulous work.

For years, Leanne has lived with worsening, unexplained pain. Since 2021, her condition has become life-threatening, with severe pain, vomiting, malnutrition, and repeated hospitalisations. After years of tests, surgeries, and being told there was no clear cause, she has finally been diagnosed with severe Nutcracker Syndrome and likely Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome: rare, serious conditions requiring highly specialised surgery.

There are only a handful of surgeons in the world who can perform this operation, and tragically, some people do not survive the wait to receive it. Leanne has been offered surgery in April 2026, but it is no longer covered by insurance. Without this surgery, her condition will continue to deteriorate. She and her husband, Rayner, must travel to the Philippines and remain there for at least a month, followed by a year of recovery at home.

Leanne has spent her life caring for others. Now time is critical, and she needs our help to survive and to be here for her children’s future. Any support, big or small, will help give Leanne a chance at life.