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Amanda is a beloved wife, devoted mother of three, and a creative force who has spent over 25 years as a hairdresser and makeup artist, helping others feel beautiful, confident, and seen. If you've met her, you know her strength, vibrant energy, contagious laughter, and selfless heart. She lights up every room she enters — but right now, that light is dim.
Now it’s our turn to be her strength.
She’s been battling Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) for the past three years — a brutal condition that affects the skin, immune system, and mental health. Over the past 12 months, her condition has deteriorated. She’s endured multiple hospital stays, and is currently back in hospital receiving around-the-clock IV antibiotics for a life-threatening staph infection.
Her skin is raw, painful, and constantly oozing. She’s had to close the doors her beloved salon, Valda’s, and has spent weeks at a time away from her children, her husband, her pets, and the comfort of her home. Simple moments like cooking for her family or snuggling up for a movie night have become impossible.
Despite seeing countless specialists — dermatologists, infectious disease teams, allergists, naturopaths — there is still no clear path to healing here in Australia. The family is doing everything they can, but emotionally and financially, they are stretched thin.
There is hope: a clinic in Thailand offers Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) therapy, an emerging treatment showing promising results for TSW. The program would require Amanda to relocate for at least six months — a significant decision for her and her family. While she hasn't yet decided if this path is right for her, we want to ensure she has the option.
This is where you come in.
We're raising funds to give Amanda and her family options — whether it’s continuing treatment here at home or pursuing alternative care overseas. Whatever path they choose, they need support now. Hospital stays, time off work, travel costs, and basic living expenses have all taken their toll.
Amanda has always shown up for others — now it's our turn to show up for her.
Please consider donating to ease the financial burden and give Amanda the space and resources to heal. Every dollar, every share, every word of encouragement brings Amanda one step closer to healing and home.
From the bottom of our hearts — thank you.
Sarah and Jackie.
Organizer and beneficiary
Amanda Rush
Beneficiary





