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Help Yemma Beat the Odds: 50 Years of Giving, Now She Needs Us

  • Still on the go, just a bit slower

      23 March 2026
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    First, thank you. The love, messages, rides, and check-ins have meant more than we can put into words. It truly takes a community, and you’ve all shown up in the most beautiful ways.

    Yem is tolerating the chemotherapy remarkably well, especially considering how strong the treatment is. Her main side effect has been increased fatigue, which has meant she can’t say yes to as many things as she usually would. That’s been tough, because her willingness, her instinct to give her time to those around her, is one of her most inspiring superpowers. Even so, she is still working at the music centre and at More to Life, still showing up for the people she loves, and somehow still finding the time to bring others flowers. That’s just who she is.

    We’re including a photo of her during treatment. It has warmed our hearts to see friends and whānau stepping in with rides to Wellington and sitting alongside her during chemo sessions. That companionship has made a real difference.

    Her doctors have recently reminded us to be especially mindful of infection risk over the coming weeks. As summer winds down, we kindly ask everyone to think carefully about visiting or coming into work if you’re unwell, for Yem, and for all those who are immunocompromised.

    With so much gratitude,

    Thank you for being part of her journey

    And as always- this is a long road for mum. Please continue to share her story and the page link, as well as talk to your local MP about affordable access to daratumumab.

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  • A Wonderful Step Forward thanks to YOU!

      7 March 2026
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    We write today with heartfelt gratitude to share that we’ve been able to lower the fundraising goal from NZD $142,600 to $109,738, thanks to generous direct donations and the incredible success of “Yemstock,” a community concert that Allan, Bengy, and the clan organised for Yemma last weekend.

    It was a beautiful afternoon with four amazing bands, food trucks, clothing and bake stalls, and a wonderful atmosphere as “Kapiti’s best” gathered to dance, sing, and connect around a shared purpose.

    Chatting with the 300+ friends and family present, two themes emerged: Yemma has touched this community for generations, and “we should have more parties like this!” It was a joyful celebration of love and friendship that filled everyone’s cup.

    Thanks to the generosity of the local community (including Joe Simmons Trio, Cut the Power, Thundersnail, Fig Jam, Duncan’s Brewing, and Selaks Wine), Yemstock raised over $7,800! A huge success for an event pulled together in just a few weeks.

    As we close this update, we encourage you to share this page, even with people who don’t know Yemma. Her battle is shared by many Kiwis who have had to crowdfund for myeloma treatment. We hope people around the world will help share her story and bring attention to this national issue, explained here:

    https://www.keepusliving.org.nz/

    This journey is far from over, but Yemma has gained strength for the road ahead from your words, donations, and commitment to sharing her story.

    Ngā mihi nui,

    The Barsantis

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  • WOW, HOW, and living in the NOW

      14 February 2026
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    Kia ora e te whānau! We are absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity and love you’ve already shown for Mum. Your words of support are a medicine of their own; please keep them coming! The term “community” takes on a whole new meaning when we see the names, messages, and contributions of those near and far, past and present.

    Great news: each of Yem’s treatment doses are pay-as-you-go, and the pharma company will match every dose she pays for, so your funds have already paid for almost 4 treatments! She receives her first THIS Friday. This is why every dollar and share counts. Alongside the weekly injections, your support is also covering doctor consultations and medical expenses, which are no longer free now that she has entered the private system. We ask that you share this link across your social networks with a message that could reach people who may not know Yem, since research shows each share can bring between $13–$43 in donations.

    We are also excited to share that we will be hosting YEMSTOCK 2026 on February 28th, from 4–8pm, at Queen Elizabeth Park. See https://www.facebook.com/share/1HmzPinXwm/ for details.

    In each update we will share a piece of Yemma’s wisdom so we’re reminded how each day with her brings treasured gifts. Today’s is a quote on the wall in her kitchen. Every time we walk into her house, we are gently reminded to choose our response in life, and mum so often models choices of willingness, growth, and attention to what is beautiful around us.

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