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Little Nala’s Cancer Fight: Support When It’s Needed Most

  • An update from Nala & her Family 💛

      22 June 2026
    Posted by: Bex Howie
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    Nala has completed her third round of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and we could not be more proud of her.

    She walked into round 3 in high spirits, saying hi to all her nurses and the kids in the ward. That is our cheeky Nala. We are thrilled to share that doctors are happy with her progress, which gives us so much hope.

    This round looked a little different. Last time she wanted to be up & moving, she spent most of her time sleeping. Her little body is working so hard, and rest is how she heals.

    Childhood cancer makes kids grow up fast. Nala has been asking big questions about being sick, missing daycare, and what her medicine does. We do our best to answer honestly while surrounding her with so much love.

    As we head into the next phase, she will have a scan to see how the primary tumour has responded to treatment. We are hopeful and will share more.

    Soraia continues to be an absolute champion. Watching the two of them together is pure joy. When Nala is in hospital, Soraia walks around the house asking for her. It melts our hearts.

    The love and support coming her way keeps us going. Every bit of time, energy and generosity means so much to our family.

    A huge thank you to AoKids, Katie, Dusko, Lorna, Rick, and everyone who has helped, fundraised, opened their homes, or simply checked in. Your kindness has carried us through some very hard days.

    If you can share this page with your networks, it is one of the most powerful things you can do for Nala right now. 💛

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  • A quick update on Nala's progress as she completes her second round of chemotherapy.

      31 May 2026
    Posted by: Bex Howie
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    Hi Everyone,

    There have been bumps along the way, but true to her name, Nala is facing this with the strength of a lioness.

    Next week, her stem cells will be harvested and later re-transplanted in two procedures to help her blood and immune systems recover. We expect hospital stays of around 2–2.5 weeks either side of treatment.

    Nala was the first child in NZ randomised into a global clinical trial combining immunotherapy and chemotherapy from the outset. Encouragingly, the two genetic markers linked to more aggressive neuroblastoma were absent or favourable. Testing also confirmed her cancer is not inherited, meaning Soraia carries no increased risk.

    Soraia has settled into Auckland and started daycare. We're staying with Mil's mum, managing hospital stays on a two nights on/two nights off rotation, and finding moments of normality where we can.

    The road ahead spans years, not months. With Mil's work finishing in October, we need to plan carefully, and if Nala relapses, treatment may require travel overseas. Here's how you can help:

    * Donate — every contribution helps

    * Share this page — the most impactful thing you can do

    * Fundraising ideas or business connections are always welcome

    * Food and petrol vouchers are gratefully received

    * Spend time with Nala and help her feel like a kid

    We've raised nearly $44,000, a figure that humbles us every day.

    Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

    With love,

    Steve, Mil, Nala & Soraia

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  • An update from Steve & Mil

      1 May 2026
    Posted by: Bex Howie
    Main image

    What an intense few weeks it has been. From the moment doctors gave us Nala’s devastating diagnosis, to packing up and relocating to Auckland, to walking through the doors of Starship Children’s Hospital, it has all felt surreal and we’re still in a spin. In such a short time, we’ve faced more than we ever thought possible, including sadness, fear, confusion and overwhelm. There’s been constant information and many decisions to make quickly. Although we’ve had plenty of support, it can still feel like a lonely path at times, yet we are doing everything we can to stay strong for Nala and ourselves, with moments of light in amongst the storm.

    Nala’s diagnosis means a long and complex road ahead. Her treatment includes chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, surgery, radiation and immunotherapy. It’s overwhelming, but we’re taking it one step at a time as we adjust to our new normal in Auckland. Soraia is with Nana and Grandad and will join us when the time is right.

    April 29 marked Nala’s first day of chemotherapy. It may seem like a small step, but getting here took many big ones, and starting treatment has brought a sense of hope. Nala is taking things in her stride and showing incredible strength.

    In the coming weeks, we will learn whether she has been selected for a randomised study, which could help shape future treatment for other children facing this rare cancer.

    Thank you to everyone who has supported us. Your kindness has meant so much.

    With gratitude,

    Steve and Mil

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    • 01/05/2026 by Sarah

      Thinking of you all. No family should have to face this. It’s a tough road, but Nala’s strength is already shining through. We’re behind you every step of the way, sending steady support and a lot of care. 💛