Warrior Princess Support Group

At 4yrs old Venessa had her first brain surgery however her tumour couldn't be removed due to its location. Back & forth to Starship Hospital

from Tokoroa for chemo treatment & tumour related complications, Venessa is

"one of approx. 20 people in the history of medicine" that is unable to absorb her own cerebro spinal fluid. A review of her cranial drainage shunt meant a redirection to the right atrium of her heart for fluid to absorb directly into her bloodstream. This proved effective for the next 4yrs until seizures indicated shunt problems again then more surgeries until her neuro team re-routed tubing to her gall bladder. This success allowed Venessa to lead as normal a life as possible without medical intervention..... until 5 weeks ago when seizures landed her in Waikato Hospital prior to being transferred back to Starship.

Tests confirmed Venessa’s brain tumour had grown in addition to a large cyst growing on top of it. A team of 30 neuro specialists formulated a plan then proceeded with the complex 5hr surgery that concluded nothing could be done to remove the cyst or the tumour. Worst case scenario for our Warrior Princess & heartbreak for her family.

Venessa’s 3rd surgery in 3wks for an additional cranial shunt but meant further setbacks this week before Radiation Treatment can commence daily for 6wks to shrink the tumour (once her wound has healed).

Venessa’s family have been by her side for the duration and things have taken their toll in terms of work, health and home life. In addition

Venessa’s elderly Nan (paternal) is at home with health issues. Venessa’s Mum Tracey gave up work as a teacher a few months ago to care for her mother in law and Venessa’s Dad Tua is commuting from Auckland Hospital to Tokoroa for his normal shifts at work.

We hope that collectively we can lighten the financial burden for Venessa’s family & allow them to enjoy quality of life with Venessa while they support her through her recovery & Radiation Treatment. The goal for Venessa's whanau is to finally return home after their baby girl's next challenge.

The Numanga/Brooker whanau are humbled by the love & support they continue to receive THANK YOU xx