A Cruel Scam Took Mum’s Savings — Your Kindness Can Help Restore Her Independence

$20,670 of $6,000 goal

Given by 478 generous donors in around 3 months

A scammer stole my 92-year-old mum’s savings, leaving her devastated & without independence; though he’s been jailed again, her money's gone

Auckland

My 92‑year‑old mum spent years carefully saving so she could stay independent for as long as possible. She knew she would soon need mobility aids and wanted to be prepared. But a scammer gained her trust, emptied her account, and took everything she had put aside.

He’s been jailed again, but none of the money will be repaid. She was left feeling ashamed, unsafe, and heartbroken.

We’re asking for help to give her back comfort, confidence, and freedom. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference. If you’re unable to donate, sharing her story helps raise awareness and may protect someone else from falling victim to elder scams.

Please look out for the older people in your life.

Talk to your parents and grandparents about scams.

Keep an eye on elderly neighbours.

If something feels off, reach out to family or authorities.

Your vigilance could spare someone else this pain.

You can read the full story here:

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/serial-scammer-dean-mcauley-jailed-again-after-cleaning-out-91-year-olds-bank-account/XQ4UZXRHNFEP7GPB2W47QKN4KQ/

Thank you for helping us rebuild her independence and restore her sense of safety.

Wendy Whitten's involvement (page creator)

She is my mother, and as her only surviving child of four, after she devoted eight years to caring for my terminally ill brother and being a loving grandmother to her two grandkids, I’m now doing all I can to support her.

Use of funds

Excess funds will go towards living costs for Cecily.

towards a lift chair

Purchase a mobility scooter

Home security cameras

Other page links

Making a Difference—A Heartfelt Thank You 18 July 2026

Thanks to your amazing support, we have transformed Mum’s home into the safe, private retreat she deserves.

We’ve replaced the old, overgrown hedge with a new fence, finally giving her the privacy she needs. We also installed security upgrades, giving us all peace of mind. Additionally, your donations paid off her recliner chair and helped her purchase a tablet, which she uses daily to learn new knitting techniques and stay active.

Thank you for giving Mum her independence and happiness back. You’ve made a real, lasting difference in her life, and we are so grateful.

With love,

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