Nearly 300 000 people in NZ live with some form or a rare disorder.         

When RDNZ asked for creatives to help we didn’t hesitate to put our hands up. With “rare” being in our family we instantly felt a connection.

RDNZ deals with families that don’t fit in prescribed boxes of illness. For these families that don’t have one of the better known rare illness, or are yet to be diagnosed, health agency help is slim.

Rare Disorders New Zealand relies on the good will and donations from New Zealanders - more so now as what little govt funding they receive was in 2019 slashed in half, jeopardizing the help and support many many families receive. Families like that of James Swan.

James was one of those whose illness didn’t fit or “tick one of the boxes”. If you think living with a rare and debilitating disease is tough, try imagining it plus the stress and heartache of fighting for some help and support. This is where RDNZ come in and support the family.

We interviewed and filmed Jame’s mother, Nicola to be used across social media in an effort to raise awareness of RDNZ as well as highlighting just how many people in or communities live with something rare.

While it was an emotionally challenging project to work on, it was hugely rewarding to use our craft in a practical and helpful way.