As we eagerly await the announcement of the winners of Fund for Good, we are excited to share some of the inspirational milestones that Manawanui Fund for Good previous recipient Emma is achieving.

Emma is an extremely hard worker who loves to be outdoors enjoying life with her sisters and was a Fund for Good winner back in 2021. Supported by parents Cindy and Nathan and sisters Lily-Anne and Chloe, Emma has been working tirelessly on her daily therapy programme to improve her cognitive abilities.

Recently, Emma has reached some phenomenal milestones. In October, Emma and Cindy went to New York for 3 weeks to be assessed by world renowned specialist in childhood neurological disorders Dr Melillo. She also undertook intensive tailored training to improve her cognitive abilities.

Since returning to New Zealand, Emma’s head has grown 6.5cm which is a clear indicator neuroplasticity is taking place daily. Very excitingly she has also started at ‘big girl school’ and was able to walk in to school pretty much all by herself. What an exciting achievement!! Watch here»

It is absolutely fantastic to see all the years of hard work paying off and a very exciting time for Emma and her wonderful family.

Chatting with Cindy

We asked Emma’s Mum, Cindy some questions to learn more about their experience in New York and navigating the schooling system. 

1. What was the purpose of your trip to New York and the top 3 things you learnt?

We went to New York so Emma could be physically assessed and evaluated by Dr Melillo and undertake a 3-week intensive therapy program. This was tailored to Emma to help strengthen her core and use neurological gadgets to help stimulate and strengthen her brain. 

I was amazed to discover:

1. It is possible for my girl to make a full recovery.  

2.The brain is amazing and can re-heal and re-structure itself with the right therapy.  

3. That my little girl is so strong and as determined to do this as I am.

2. How has life changed since the treatment in New York?

Since the treatment in New York, Emma has been absolutely smashing milestones.  

Emma has experienced some physical changes, putting on weight, growing muscles and having a 10 cm growth spurt. She has been using her hands with intention and purpose, rather than sporadic movements - even getting herself a drink of water. Emma is also able to stand up and walk with little support – I am so proud of her. 

She is full of chat and is saying things like ‘I love you, my Mum.’ 

Incredibly, Emma’s head has grown 6.5cm since New York! Previously Emma’s head hasn’t grown since 2018 so this really shows how much her brain is growing.  

She has also started going to school on Fridays, and is able to walk-in by herself, just holding on to my pinky finger.  

One thing that hasn’t changed since the treatment, Emma’s dedication to her daily therapy – she currently does 100 sit ups per session.

3. It was fantastic to see that Emma has now started at 'big girl school.' How has this experience been for you and Emma? What has delighted or scared you the most about her making this milestone?

Because we waited until Emma was ready, starting school has been a rewarding experience. There has not been a single tear, Emma has had the best time learning and playing with other kids.  

As it was such a big decision, I held a meeting and educated teachers about where Emma was at, what she needs and my expectations which really eased my anxiety about Emma starting school. 

I have been delighted that Emma has been having a great time learning from her peers and received excellent communication from her school. 

I was scared about how kids will treat my daughter and if the teachers would respect her as a person, but Emma’s and my experience has only been positive. It makes me so happy to hear that when she is at school other kids are wanting to play with her.

If you want to keep up to date with Emma’s progress, Cindy is fantastic at sharing updates on Facebook. Follow along here»

Emma and her whānau have achieved so much – proving many people wrong with Emma’s achievements. She is an inspiration to so many people with her consistent hard work and dedication. 

A big thank you to Cindy for answering our questions and providing an update on where Emma is at now. We wish you all the best and can’t wait to see what you and Emma achieve.