Hope for Tessa

For more than 800 days, little Tessa has been fighting high-risk Stage 4 neuroblastoma, one of the most aggressive childhood cancers.

Diagnosed at just four years old, Tessa has already endured more than most will face in a lifetime. Two bone marrow transplants, countless rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, multiple surgeries and intensive immunotherapy have all been part of her brave journey.

Now, after a devastating relapse, Tessa’s family has been told there may be no curative treatment options left in Australia.

Her parents, Renee and Darren, along with big brother Remy, have been given a glimmer of hope. A promising treatment known as CAR T-cell therapy is available in Rome, but the cost is overwhelming.

Neuroblastoma Australia has advised the treatment will cost $750,000 and it must happen within the next three to six months.

In response, supporters have launched the “Hope for Tessa” campaign, calling on 75,000 people to donate just $10 and help give Tessa a fighting chance.

Despite everything she has been through, Tessa remains bright, cheeky and endlessly creative. She loves all things pink, crafting, makeup and changing her look with colourful wigs. When she’s well enough, she enjoys trips to Kmart, Popmart and Miniso, and proudly sets up slime stalls to share her creations with others.

Her dreams are heartbreakingly simple. Sleeping in her own bed. Splashing in the rain. Swimming without fear of infection. One day having a puppy to call her own.

Earlier this year, the family dared to hope they were finally heading home to start living again. But a routine scan revealed the cancer had returned and it was spreading.

Now, every day is about love, memories and moments that matter.

If you can help, even in the smallest way, please consider donating and sharing Tessa’s story. Together, we can help turn hope into action and give this beautiful little girl the chance she so deeply deserves.