Meet Nina Grace
Nina Grace, now 9, was born with multiple congenital anomalies associated with VACTERL Association, a condition that can affect several body systems. By the age of six, she had already undergone multiple surgeries.
Despite the many health challenges she continues to face, Nina Grace has remained her happy, determined self. As her mum shares, “With everything Nina is going through, she has always been her happy self, never letting anything stop her.”
This year Nina Grace has been diagnosed with an intellectual disability. Learning and doing daily task such as getting dressed has become a struggle for her recently. She also needs regular check-ups to monitor a narrowing in one side of the conduit that helps carry blood from her heart to her lungs.
Through it all, Nina Grace and her whaanau continue to take things one day at a time, and her family continues to adapt and find ways to support her.
Her mum would like to share her thanks with everyone who makes a difference for children and their families this Christmas: “I would like to thank everyone who has helped and continues to help, including all the new supporters, for making everything possible for our sick kids and their whaanau this Christmas.”
We met Nina Grace in 2023
Described by her parents as their miracle baby, 6-year-old Nina Grace adores going to school, making new friends, and learning new things. Her infectious enthusiasm and determination have touched the hearts of everyone she meets.
Born with multiple congenital anomalies associated with VACTERL Association, a condition that can affect various body systems, Nina Grace has undergone multiple surgeries, and every step of the way Nina Grace and her family have been supported by Kidz First. Most recently she has undergone spinal surgery and is standing taller than ever. Nina Grace will be facing further surgeries throughout her life.
As a Kidz First patient living in our community with long-term health needs, Nina is a Kidz First Christmas attendee. She had the best time last year getting her face painted, meeting Santa, and playing with other kids just like her.
"Last year's Christmas party was absolutely awesome and seeing all the kids' big smiles was my favourite part. Just knowing the community, all the Kidz First nurses and staff, and all the sponsors that helped put it on for our sick kiddies and their families is just amazing. Thank you all so much again for being able to help make it all possible for yet another amazing Christmas for our kids and whanau". Nina Grace's mum
