And she was not there when she gave birth either.
They are moments Henderson will never get back.
But the 28-year-old boxer has punched her ticket to Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games in July and August.
The former Otago Spirit flanker has been named in the New Zealand boxing team alongside six others.
‘‘Oh, well, it’s a surreal feeling,’’ she enthused.
‘‘Yeah, it feels so good just knowing that I’m representing my family and community.’’
Henderson, who hails from Oamaru, traded in a promising rugby career for a shot at boxing glory four years ago.
There have been so many sacrifices along the way.
‘‘I’ve missed out on seeing my family. My sister’s getting ready for her wedding at the moment and I’ve missed out on her dress shopping.
‘‘I was overseas at Worlds when she gave birth as well. I couldn’t be there to support her.
‘‘And financially, yeah, it is very hard.’’
Henderson found out the news about a month ago and could not keep it secret from her family, who have made huge sacrifices as well.
They know how much hard work Henderson has put in to achieve her dream and there is more mahi ahead.
‘‘Yeah, yeah. A lot of sparring with the boys still to go, so full on.’’
Henderson, who will compete in the women’s 70kg category, won the New Zealand light middleweight title and was recognised as the most scientific boxer at the 2024 national championships.
She combined power with ring craft and has continued to improve.
Henderson stepped up a weight class in 2025 into the middleweight division for the Brisbane International Golden Gloves and New Zealand Championships, claiming gold in both events.
Henderson has represented New Zealand internationally, including competing at the 2025 World Boxing Championships and 2026 World Boxing Cup.
She joins Taupō’s Connor Campbell (men’s 65kg), Hamilton pair Greer Hall (women’s 54kg) and Alex Mukuka (men’s 55kg), and Auckland trio Finbar O’Sullivan (men’s 60kg), Wendall Stanley (men’s 70kg) and Jordan Wilson (women’s 60kg).
New Zealand Olympic chief executive officer Nicki Nicol said the team represented the strength of the boxing community and the support behind each athlete.
‘‘Selection for the Commonwealth Games is a special moment for any athlete,’’ Nicol said.
‘‘It’s not just about the individual, it’s about the whānau, friends and wider community who have supported them every step of the way.
‘‘We know how hard this group has worked to get to this point, and we’re proud to see them represent New Zealand on the Commonwealth stage.’’
