In memoriam: Jade

Today we received the deeply saddening news that Jade has passed away as a result of cancer. Since 2021, when she was 14 years old, she had been treated at the Princess Máxima Center, and every possible effort was made to cure her. Many came to know Jade as a girl with an open view on her illness and a big heart for her fellow patients. Jade wanted to actively do something for other children with cancer and their families. This became an important part of her life during the years she lived with her illness.

Her involvement with the Foundation
Jade meant a great deal to the Princess Máxima Center Foundation. In an impressive way, she was able to share her story. She did so through her social media, but also with donors at meetings and events. For example, she spoke in September last year at the Foundation’s Charity Gala. In doing so, she gave a face to the importance of supporting groundbreaking research and better care for children with cancer. With her openness and honesty, she deeply moved people and inspired them to take action.

Taking action for her fellow patients
Over a year and a half ago, when Jade was 17 years old, she was told that a cure was no longer possible. Almost immediately, she decided to take action and raise funds for the Máxima. Her motivation was clear, as Jade herself said: “So that children after me won’t have to go through the same thing and will be able to get better.” She also played a leading role, together with her fellow patients, during the 538 Morning Run of 2025. When it became clear that the run would be dedicated to her, Jade responded with words that so clearly reflect her compassion: “So beautiful, so kind, and so amazing that you are doing this to help create a better future for my fellow patients. You are worth gold.” With the help of many, Jade’s campaign grew into something unprecedented. In total, she raised more than two million euros. As agreed with her, this will be used to improve survival chances for children with cancer.

A word of thanks
At the Máxima, all children with cancer in the Netherlands are treated, from babies to teenagers. Every child is equally valuable and has their own story, diagnosis, and treatment journey. We share in the experiences of all children and their families equally. Sometimes, there are individuals who, driven by their own intrinsic motivation, make an extraordinary contribution to the mission of the Máxima. Jade was one of those people.

She took action for her fellow patients. Through her dedication, she helped accelerate that mission. Therefore, we express our deep gratitude here for everything Jade has done for the Máxima and for her fellow patients.