One of my best friends, Eleni, has recently been diagnosed with the Big C — something that none of us ever saw coming. Just a couple of months ago, she was healthy, happy, and living life to the fullest. Since then, everything has changed. Eleni has been in hospital ever since, luckily no longer in the ICU fighting for her life.

Eleni has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer: stage 4 angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma. The diagnosis came completely out of nowhere and progressed with frightening speed, and it still doesn’t feel real. Her treatment journey is complex and intense, and if she is able to achieve remission, it will likely involve a bone marrow transplant, meaning a long, uncertain road ahead.

Eleni is very unwell and is being supported around the clock by her loving family and incredible medical team as she faces this terrifying battle. Watching someone so full of life, laughter, and warmth suddenly be thrown into such a heartbreaking situation has been incredibly difficult. But if there’s one thing we all know about Eleni she is a fighter.

For those who don’t know, Eleni is a paramedic who has dedicated her career to helping others across South Australia and New South Wales. She’s been there for countless people and families in their most critical moments, offering care, compassion, and strength when they needed it most. Now it’s our turn to show up for her to help ease some of the financial and emotional pressure so she can focus on healing.

We’re hoping to raise money to help cover the costs of ongoing medical treatment, everyday living expenses, and the additional support Eleni and her family need throughout this incredibly long and difficult journey.

Anyone who knows Eleni knows how incredible she is, the life of the party, the one who makes questionable decisions that somehow always turn into the best memories, the one who never gives up, and the one who brings kindness, courage, and love wherever she goes. She deserves to feel that same love and strength returned to her now more than ever.

Every donation, no matter how small, truly makes a difference. And if you’re not in a position to give, please consider sharing this page to help spread the word. Together, we can rally behind Eleni and her family and remind her that she is not facing this alone.

Thank you besties x