Let me introduce you to our beautiful children, Gisele (6) and Johan (4). Gisele is very playful, enthusiastic, sociable, fun, and cheeky. Johan is sporty, affectionate, loves cars, and has a great sense of humor. They are both very happy and smiley children who love school and learning.

Since Gisele was born, she met all her developmental milestones, but there was something unusual when she began to walk as a toddler. We always thought she would grow out of it. Then Johan was born a couple of years later. After five weeks of having him with us, we received one of the worst pieces of news a parent could hear.

Gisele was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Ataxia Telangiectasia (AT for short), a very complex neurodegenerative condition with no treatment or cure available. We were in complete shock. We were told that our daughter would not grow up like most children and would lose her ability to walk, drink, and eat independently, speak clearly, and read. Additionally, she would potentially have a weaker immune system and a higher risk of cancer—all by the age of 10. Yet, cognitively, they are not affected and are fully aware of it all.

Our world came crumbling down. Life for us would be forever changed from that day onward.

That same day, they suggested testing our son Johan, who was just a little baby at the time. A month later, we were very sadly told that Johan was also born with Ataxia Telangiectasia.

For the last four years, we have been living with AT. Some days we feel low, and on others, we try to forget what the future holds. But regardless, we always have one thing in mind: to try to find ways to help our kids have a better future and to make their lives as normal as possible. This is especially important considering the ever-increasing treatment needs required to keep their health stable.

Gisele and Johan's needs span from private specialist physiotherapy equipment to alternative treatments like acupuncture, naturopathy, osteopathy, and massages, as well as vitamin supplements and countless other medical expenses—too many to list here.

With Tree of Hope's support, we aim to help maintain our children’s physical abilities as best as possible through this very difficult journey and, most of all, to see our lovely children Gisele and Johan continue to thrive as they have until now.

If you wish to donate to our fund, please use the following Tree of Hope link (Gisele & Johan’s Miracle - Tree of Hope).

Thank you so much for reading our story.

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7.5% of all donations to Tree of Hope in relation to this appeal will be allocated to the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope to cover our core operating costs.

If we raise insufficient or surplus funds, the funds will be used, if appropriate, to fund support for our children’s needs in accordance with Tree of Hope’s charitable objects. If, in those circumstances, we are unable to use all or part of the funds for the benefit of our children in accordance with Tree of Hope’s charitable objects, then any unused funds will be transferred to support the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope.