At just two years old, Porirua’s Aless Clements was diagnosed with a brain tumour and given a slim chance of reaching her eighth birthday. Now 17, she’s attending school, connecting with peers, and quietly challenging the odds every day.
Her journey has included more than 50 general anaesthetics, surgeries, and intensive cancer treatment. While she lives with lasting effects – fatigue, balance issues, and hearing loss – Aless has never let her diagnosis define her.
A constant source of support and joy throughout her childhood has been Camp Quality, a charity that provides free, volunteer-led summer camps for children living with or beyond cancer. Aless began attending at age five and returned year after year, forming strong friendships and enjoying moments of normalcy and fun.
This past January, her experience came full circle when her mum Rachel and older sister Gabi joined Camp Quality as volunteers, inspired by Aless’s connection to the programme. The family spent five days at camp supporting other children and their families, giving back to a community that had given them so much.
Rachel described the experience as deeply meaningful, seeing first-hand the positive environment that had supported Aless for so many years.
Camp Quality, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, has supported thousands of young New Zealanders since launching in 1985. Working in close partnership with the Child Cancer Foundation, the charity offers not just fun, but an important layer of emotional support for families navigating life during and after cancer treatment.
General Manager Dave Bellamy said Camp Quality’s impact goes far beyond a week of activities. “These camps provide a space for children to reconnect with themselves and others. They help build resilience and offer experiences that many families tell us are transformative.”
Aless, now in her final years of school, continues to participate in Camp Quality events and looks forward to what’s ahead. Her journey is one of quiet determination – and the power of community to make a difference.