At just nine years old, brave Zelnay Liebenberg is facing an aggressive battle against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia with a strength and resilience that inspires us all.
Brakpan, South Africa (03 June 2026) – At nine years old, Zelnay Liebenberg should be spending her days enjoying school, playing with friends, and dreaming about her future. Instead, she finds herself fighting for her life.
However, her days have been marked by hospital stays, doctors’ appointments and medical treatments.
“Zelnay was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), an aggressive form of blood cancer. Since her diagnosis, she has endured countless hospital admissions, invasive procedures, blood transfusions, chemotherapy treatments, and the emotional trauma that comes with a life-threatening illness. Despite everything she has faced, she continues to fight with incredible strength and resilience,” shares Yoschini Govender, who met Zelnay at the Paediatric Oncology Ward at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital.
It was during one of Yoschini’s visits to the hospital, where she dedicates her time to supporting children and families through various community initiatives, that she was moved by Zelnay’s journey.
“Over the years, I have met countless brave children from all walks of life. I have witnessed extraordinary courage, heartbreaking loss, and the immense emotional and financial burden that cancer places on families. Every child I meet leaves a lasting impact on my heart, and every family becomes part of a journey that I carry with me long after I leave the ward. From the moment I met her, Zelnay’s beautiful smile, gentle spirit, and quiet courage stood out.”
Sadly, Zelnay’s journey has become even more challenging. Her family recently received the devastating news that her cancer has relapsed.
“This has been a very rough path since the relapse at the end of March 2026. Zelnay has been in the hospital now for a full month and two days. Emotionally, it is taking a big toll on her as she just wants to be with her family. Financially, it is so difficult for us, but we are trying our very utmost best,” Zelany’s mom, Zanelle, tells us.
Zelany’s medical team has advised that she urgently requires specialised treatment, including immunotherapy and a stem cell transplant, to give her the best possible chance of survival.
The estimated cost of this life-saving treatment is said to be about R3 million – a figure that is simply beyond the financial means of her family. They are currently fundraising, rallying support and trying to secure sponsorships and partnerships to try to cover Zelnay’s treatment.
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Every donation, every share, every mention, and every connection has the potential to change the course of this little girl’s life.
Visit Zelnay’s crowdfunding campaign to make a donation.
Sources: Yoschini Govender | Zanelle Liebenberg
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