Frankie and her father, Paul, relocated from their home in Blenheim to Christchurch, where they spent months living between Christchurch Hospital and Ronald McDonald House.
Meanwhile, Frankie’s mother, Jen, remained in Blenheim with their two other children, making the journey to Christchurch whenever possible before the family moved there in 2023.
Frankie is described by her parents as cheeky, caring, and funny. Photo / Supplied
Throughout her treatment, Frankie displayed remarkable strength and bravery, often surprising her parents with her resilience.
They recall her excitement during hospital visits, where she looked forward to seeing her doctors and nurses with a smile.
After enduring an exhausting 799 days of treatment, the family celebrated a major milestone in November 2024: Frankie was officially clear of leukaemia.
The family enjoyed a summer at home, savouring the moments of normalcy they had longed for.
However, just four months into her remission, the family’s hopes were abruptly shattered in March 2025 when Frankie became reluctant to walk.
The bucket list is filled with adventures and activities. Photo / Supplied
Concerned, her parents took her back to the doctor, only to be confronted with the news that Frankie’s cancer had returned, this time, in her spinal fluid.
“Your world comes suddenly down, it really does,” Paul said.
Given Frankie also has Down syndrome, a bone marrow transplant was too high-risk, leaving them with no further treatment options.
Jen and Paul faced the unimaginable decision to create a bucket list for Frankie, filled with experiences “every child should have”.
“We’re cramming in what people fit in about 16 years of childhood into months,” Paul said.
The list is filled with adventures and activities, including fishing, joining a dance class, sleeping under the stars, and learning to ride a bike.
“It’s not about us now; it’s about Frankie and the other kids,” Paul said.
“We’re doing what we can because we don’t know – nobody does know how many months it is.”
Determined to make every moment special, the family have set out to fill their time with Frankie with unforgettable experiences.
Recently, Frankie and her siblings had the opportunity to ride on the main float alongside Santa at the Rangiora Christmas parade.
Frankie and her siblings at the Rangiora Christmas parade. Photo / Supplied
Frankie participated in a school sports day and has spent quality time playing in her new backyard playhouse.
Paul and Jen expressed heartfelt gratitude to their community, who have rallied around them with unwavering support for Frankie’s bucket list.
“We are truly blessed and thankful for everyone helping us make this happen,” they said, overwhelmed by the kindness shown by neighbours, friends, and even strangers.
The list continues to grow, and the family are open to any ideas that could further enrich their time together with Frankie.
In an effort to garner support and share their journey, a Givealittle page has been set up for Frankie and her family.
The page not only assists in making as many memories as possible but also provides regular updates to the community about Frankie’s latest adventures.
Jazlyn Whales is a multimedia journalist based in the Christchurch newsroom.