Help Maliyia Fight Brain Cancer

Hi, my name is Kiri, and I'm reaching out on behalf of my brave 9-year-old niece, Maliyia who is fighting brain cancer.

Maliyia is a funny, cheeky, shy and kind Yanyuwa Garrwa girl from Borroloola, Northern Territory. She loves music, swimming and playing with her brother, Tyriqe, and cousins. Maliyia and her cousin, Harmony, dream of travelling the world when they grow up.

We want to make that happen for her.

Her diagnosis

Our world turned upside down when Maliyia was flown from Darwin to Sydney after an MRI revealed a life-threatening brain tumor. The diagnosis was a devastating blow: Medulloblastoma brain cancer.

Her journey so far

Maliyia has already undergone surgery to remove the tumor, but her battle is far from over. She faces a long and arduous journey to regain her speech, mobility, and overall health. The grueling process of radiation therapy has begun, causing her to experience the harsh side effects of new medications. And once radiation is complete, Maliyia will embark on a daunting round of chemotherapy that will extend well into Christmas.

Follow Maliyia’s journey on Instagram

Her family and home

In this challenging time, Maliyia's unwavering spirit is bolstered by the love of her mother and stepfather, who remain by her side in Sydney. However, her older brother and best friend, Tyriqe, had to stay behind at home in the NT. These two have always been inseparable, making their separation especially difficult for both of them.

Being thousands of kilometres away from her beloved home in the NT, Maliyia endures not only the physical challenges of her cancer treatment but also the profound homesickness that comes with it. Separated from the familiar sights, sounds, and warmth of her community, Maliyia longs for the comfort of her home and the support of her Mob, friends and family, especially Tyriqe. Every day, she yearns for the familiarity of home. The distance makes her incredibly heartsick. The harsh reality is that being away from home, off Country, is a necessity to fight brain cancer as we simply do not have the medical support and facilities that the bigger cities have.

We need your help

The purpose of this fundraiser is to alleviate the immense emotional and financial burden that Maliyia's treatment has placed on the family. While medical expenses are a major concern, the costs of frequent flights for family and Tyriqe to visit his sister are equally significant. Tyriqe has so far made two trips to Sydney, and there will be many more, including during the holiday season. It is crucial for Maliyia's well-being and recovery that she can see her brother and any accompanying family members who escort him. The first trip to Westmead was very emotional, filled with both heartache and hope. We are determined to create cherished moments of happiness during their time together.

We are humbly requesting your support throughout Maliyia’s journey. The funds raised will go towards essential expenses such as clothes, food, and medicine, as well as the significant costs of flights and a reliable car to transport Maliyia and her family during this trying time. Additionally, we’d like to allocate a portion to assist Tyriqe with his schooling, sports, and everyday life, as he bravely strives to maintain a sense of normalcy while most of his family are away in Sydney.

Every donation, no matter how small, will make an immeasurable difference in Maliyia's journey and the lives of those who love her. Together, we can help alleviate the burden and ensure that Maliyia receives the care and support she needs to overcome this battle against brain cancer.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts

We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of support we have already received.

Cancer doesn't just affect one, it hurts many.

Please consider making a donation today, share Maliyia’s story and join us in giving Maliyia and her family the strength, hope, and resources they need to face this challenge head-on.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.