Elia needs our help to fight Hodgkin lymphoma. Please donate

Elia Santoro, a passionate community leader and advocate for Australian football, is facing her toughest battle yet: Hodgkin lymphoma. As she undergoes intensive blood cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, the road ahead is long and challenging. Despite her resilience, the financial burden is immense, making it difficult for her to focus on healing. This has been complicated by debilitating rheumatoid arthritis.

We're reaching out to friends, family, and the football community to help ease this burden, particularly as Elia can’t work. Your donations will cover medical expenses, daily living costs, and support her during this critical time. Let’s come together to help Elia on this journey and show her football cares, so she can return to doing what she loves most.

How can I help Elia?

About Elia

For over 30 years, Elia's brought people together across all levels of Australian football. From the Socceroos, Matildas and A-Leagues to the grassroots, Elia's collaborated with administrators, players and coaches on some of the most memorable events in the game. Her experience across government, private, and nonprofit sectors is reflected in her ability to lead projects and navigate complex challenges for football’s National and State governing bodies, and other organisations.

Elia’s greatest trait is her selflessness. She's always volunteering her support to those in need. Her ability to connect with anyone who shares her love of the beautiful game is remarkable. When you talk to Elia you know you're in for a long chat, while she's busy thinking about how she can get you involved.

She's truly a gift to the game!

Hodgkin lymphoma information

Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is a vital part of the immune system. It affects white blood cells called lymphocytes, leading to the growth of abnormal cells known as Reed-Sternberg cells. This type of cancer typically begins in the lymph nodes and can spread to other parts of the body, such as the spleen, liver, or lungs.

The symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma vary but often include swelling of lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, persistent tiredness, and itching. Because these symptoms can mimic those of other conditions, diagnosis may be delayed.

For patients, challenges include not only the physical effects of the disease but also the emotional and financial burdens. Treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and stem cell transplants can lead to fatigue, nausea, and other side effects. Patients may also face long recovery times and the risk of relapse. Financial stress from treatment costs is also significant.

With the right treatment, many patients achieve remission, but the journey is long and challenging.

Cancer Council NSW. (2023). Understanding Hodgkin Lymphoma: A guide for people with cancer, their families and friends. https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Understanding-Hodgkin-Lymphoma-2023.pdf

Updates on Elia’s treatment and wellbeing will be shared throughout her journey to remission.

Please note the preferred contact method

As Elia's undergoing intensive and ongoing treatment, all enquiries regarding fundraising are to be directed to Anthony Siokos via this GoFundMe™ page. Anthony will respond within 24-48 hours.

For transparency and at Elia's request, all fundraising is to be directed to this GoFundMe™ page.