Hi, it's Francesca, Victor, Monika, Rowena, Nicolette and Gems here. We have set this up to support Emerald who has been diagnosed with hormone receptor-positive, stage 3 breast cancer and is beginning an intensive 7+ months of treatment. We're hoping to raise funds to help cover essential living expenses and treatment-related costs.

Many people know Emerald through her creative work, supporting independent artists, and the way she shows up for those around her. Right now, she is facing one of the biggest challenges of her life.

Emerald will undergo an intensive treatment plan including two types of chemotherapy totalling 6 months, surgery, radiation, followed by long-term medication.

We're incredibly grateful the Emerald lives in Australia, where Medicare will cover the majority of Emerald's medical care. However even with a strong healthcare system there are still significant costs that come with navigating cancer treatment and maintaining everyday life.

Like many creatives working freelance, Emerald doesn't have access to employer-funded sick leave or income protection as treatment affects her ability to work. Unfortunately as a New Zealand citizen she isn't eligible for Centrelink benefits.

During this time, we're hoping to ease some of the financial pressure by helping cover rent, essential household expenses, medications, transport to appointments, groceries, and other out-of-pocket costs that arise throughout treatment and recovery.

Rent and essential household costs alone are approximately $1,500 per month. Our goal is to help cover a portion of these expenses while Emerald focuses her energy where it belongs by getting through treatment and recovering well.

If you'd like to support Emerald through the year ahead, any contribution will help.

If donating isn't possible right now, there are other meaningful ways to help. For those in Melbourne, support such as a home-cooked vegetarian meals, a lift to or from appointments, running errands or simply checking in with Emerald can help. Comment here or contact Emerald or one of us privately.

Thank you for showing up for Emerald with the care, and community spirit that already surrounds her so strongly.