An 8-year-old girl named Zelnay Liebenberg from Brakpan, Gauteng, is facing a difficult battle. At the end of April, Zelnay received a diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and was placed in the high-risk group. This diagnosis has meant frequent hospital admissions and strong chemotherapy treatments, taking an immense physical and emotional toll on this brave little girl.
Zelnay’s health struggles began in late March 2025 when she started feeling unwell. Her parents initially took her to a doctor who suspected iron deficiency and inflammatory arthritis, prescribing pain medication. However, Zelnay’s symptoms – terrible leg pain and a sore stomach – persisted. After more tests, a lumbar puncture, and a bone marrow test, the family received the devastating news on the 1st of May, that Zelnay had leukemia. She was admitted to Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital two days later to begin her fight.
Since then, she has undergone numerous procedures. To make the process easier and spare her from daily needle pricks, Zelnay recently received a port. The treatment has been difficult, causing severe nausea and vomiting, but throughout it all, she remains incredibly brave. Her family describes her as a bright, kind-hearted girl with a precious personality and a smile that can light up any room.
The Financial Strain of a Critical Illness
Zelnay’s medical journey has placed a significant financial burden on her family. Without medical aid, they are shouldering the costs of her extensive care. A bill from Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital has already reached almost R20,000 since her diagnosis, adding immense stress to an already difficult time. Her parents have also had to take unpaid leave and cover the costs of transportation to and from the hospital for her treatments.
How You Can Help
The family is reaching out with heavy hearts but hopeful spirits, asking for support from their community. They believe that with the help of others, they can ease the financial burden and allow Zelnay to focus on what matters most: her health and recovery.
If Zelnay’s story has touched your heart, please consider making a donation today to help ensure she receives the continuous care she needs. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference in her life and bring hope and relief to a family in desperate need. The goal is to raise funds to help cover her ongoing medical expenses (treatments, specialist care, other special needs). We have also launched a heartfelt bracelet project to help raise funds for her ongoing medical expenses to further support her journey.
Make a Donation
Account Holder: Arms of Mercy NPC
Bank: Standard Bank
Account Type: Cheque Account
Account Number: 10114699702
Branch Code: 051001
Swift Code: SBZA ZA JJ
REF: ZELNAY LIEBENBERG
Alternatively, make a donation online with Payfast.
