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

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Latest update

A Journey From Shock to Support  15 May 2026

When Mum was scammed, it shattered her confidence & independence. Losing that money was devastating, & for a long time she carried the weight of shame & worry. But when her story was shared, something incredible happened, people cared. People helped. People lifted her back up.

The Givealittle page originally closed once donations reached the amount she lost, but the kindness shown by so many meant it was reopened. This update is to share how your generosity has changed Mum’s life.

Thanks to you, her mobility chair is now fully paid for, giving her comfort and independence every day. She also has a tablet that’s easier for her to use than her phone. She’s been learning new knitting and crochet skills. Security cameras are being installed soon, helping her feel safe again.

She had hoped to get a mobility scooter, but after thinking it through, she decided it wasn’t the right choice for her now. What mattered most was having the option, something she didn’t have before.

For the first time in years, she can afford her annual eye check‑up. One of the most special moments was buying her grandson a birthday present. She was glowing with pride.

Since sharing her story, a huge weight has lifted. She is no longer ashamed. She talks openly about what happened. She is smiling again. She is living again.

To the 7 Sharp team and the incredible people of New Zealand, thank you! Your kindness didn’t just replace what was stolen. It gave Mum back her confidence, her dignity, and her life.

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Latest donations

Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 11 May 2026
$10
Wendy Whitten

Hi, we really appreciate your kindness and support ❤️

Wendy Whitten
Casey
Casey on 11 May 2026
From Jobbie - its not much but I hope it helps
$10
Wendy Whitten

Hi, thank you for your gift it, means so much to us ❤️

Wendy Whitten
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 25 Apr 2026
Private
Wendy Whitten

Hi, thank you for your generous contribution. We’re so grateful 🙏

Wendy Whitten
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 22 Apr 2026
$40
Wendy Whitten

Hi, thank you for being so kind and for your supportive ❤️

Wendy Whitten
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 22 Apr 2026
$25
Wendy Whitten

Hi, we’re very grateful for your support. Thank you! ❤️

Wendy Whitten

Who's involved?

Wendy Whitten's avatar
Created by, and paying to a verified bank account of, Wendy Whitten on behalf of Cecily Jean Whitten
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This campaign started on 9 Feb 2026 and ended on 20 May 2026.