Jasper’s Journey Continues

On 5th September, our beautiful boy Jasper was born with congenital neuroblastoma. Before he was even born, we were told he had a large tumour growing from his lower spine, dangerously close to his spinal cord. Our world changed overnight.

At just 3 weeks old, Jasper began chemotherapy at Queensland Children’s Hospital. We spent weeks living at Ronald McDonald House in Brisbane, separated from our daughter while trying to navigate every parent’s worst nightmare.

Thankfully, Jasper is no longer receiving active chemotherapy, and for that we are incredibly grateful. But his journey is far from over.

Jasper continues to require ongoing specialist care through Queensland Children’s Hospital, including regular oncology reviews, scans and multiple specialist appointments. More recently, he has been diagnosed with aspiration, meaning food and fluids can enter his airway, putting him at risk of chest infections and other complications. This has led to ongoing care with speech pathology, respiratory specialists and ENT, with more appointments and investigations still ahead.

Many people assume that once cancer treatment finishes, life returns to normal. Unfortunately, that hasn’t been our reality.

Because Jasper is no longer receiving active cancer treatment, we do not qualify for Centrelink assistance. We also do not qualify for NDIS, as his current medical needs are considered medical rather than developmental. Despite this, the costs continue to grow.

The road ahead includes:

* Frequent trips to Brisbane for specialist appointments.

* Fuel, accommodation and parking costs.

* Lost income from reducing work hours and taking extended leave to care for Jasper and attend his appointments.

* Ongoing medical expenses that aren’t fully covered.

Like so many families, we never imagined we’d be in this position. We don’t like asking for help, but right now we need it.

Every donation, no matter how small, helps ease the financial pressure and allows us to focus on what matters most—our little boy.

If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing Jasper’s story means the world to us.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing beside our family and supporting Jasper on his journey.

With love,

Lauren, Jaiger, Alayna & Jasper