4-year-old Annabelle is a cheeky, fun-loving little girl who was her parents’ miracle baby.

Annabelle’s journey started with a large, swollen lump on her head and swollen lymph nodes along her throat.

Then came a rollercoaster of medical appointments, hospital admissions and countless tests. 

The cause of Annabelle’s symptoms remained unclear until she was finally referred to the Queensland Children’s Hospital and underwent a series of ultrasounds, blood tests and specialist consultations.

Her parents anxiously awaited answers, and then they received the heart-breaking news…

On 8th July 2024, Annabelle was diagnosed with b-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. 

Annabelle was immediately admitted to the oncology ward where she received two transfusions to stabilise her dangerously low platelet levels.

She then commenced a treatment protocol involving intensive chemotherapy and steroids (which drastically affected her mood).

Annabelle’s family had to uproot their lives from a ‘sleepy little village’ in Northern NSW to Brisbane for easy access to the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

Sadly, this meant leaving Annabelle’s Dachshund puppy Maverick, or 'Mavvy,' behind in the care of family. Maverick is a big emotional support for Annabelle, who has high-functioning autism, helping her regulate her emotions when she is overwhelmed.

Thankfully, this amazing young lady is now in the maintenance phase of treatment.

She’s back home with Maverick and new furry family member, Sterling – she calls them her ‘sweethearts.’ During this phase of her treatment the frequency of her hospital trips will drop to once every 3 months, and she’ll receive daily oral chemo.

Community support has been such a beacon of light for Annabelle’s family during this cancer journey, with her parents sharing that ‘the outpouring of love and support has been nothing short of jaw-dropping.’

Annabelle’s day care centre held a special ‘Wear it Pink for Annabelle Day,’ a local bakery sold cupcakes and donated the proceeds towards her recovery, and her Uncle Tony (a 10-year legacy rider of GCC) has dedicated his challenge to her.

Annabelle, you are a brave and courageous little lady - we’re all riding for YOU this October!