No waiting for someday! Living boldly now with a grade 3 brain tumour - making memories and ticking off my bucket list one item at a time.
Milton, Otago
No waiting for someday!
On 7 October 2025, I was told I had a brain tumour. Thirteen days later, on 20 October, I had brain surgery. Then on 25 November, I was given the diagnosis: astrocytoma grade 3. Since then I’ve pushed through radiation and I’m now on a year of oral chemo. The truth is, no one can tell me for sure what comes next. With a high grade tumour-one that's typically considered incurable but still treatable, and brain cancer taking more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer, I’ve decided I’m not waiting for outcomes before I start living.
I want to live now. Not “one day”, not “after treatment”, not “when things settle”. Now-while the present is still a gift.
This page is to help me create memories while I can: trips, adventures, and experiences that make me feel alive-a bucket list I actually get to tick off. Your support helps me fill my days with joy, connection, and memories that matter. More than anything, I want to use this time to create meaningful memories with my husband, my youngest sister who lives with us, and the people who mean the world to us.
I'll be sharing updates as I tick things off-so you'll get to come along for the ride too 🥳
Thank you for helping me live a life lived now!
P.S even if donating isn't possible right now, sharing this page would mean just as much 🥰
Money raised will help me enjoy a life lived now - through big and small bucket‑list experiences (such as traveling around the South Island, and getting a pet) as well as also easing some of the practical financial pressure during treatment
Round 7, no regrowth, and everything good in between! 3 September 2026
I keep sitting down to write these updates and feeling the same thing every time: overwhelmed, in the best way, by how many of you are still cheering me on. Thank you for the donations, messages, and shares-it hasn't gone unnoticed or un-felt.
Where things are at: I start round 7 of chemo next week-over halfway there! I've also had two check-up MRIs (three-monthly, to monitor my brain), both showing no regrowth — the best news I could ask for. Day-to-day still has its ups and downs, as chemo leaves me jaded and fatigued, but I'm taking it one round at a time and making the most of the good days.
Something I haven't shared much: as a result of treatment, I'm unable to drive for at least another year. Between specialist appointments and MRIs, that's a lot of travel-and a portion of what's been contributed goes straight toward that, relieving so much pressure for Brendon and me. It's also covered classes and courses that help me feel more like myself again.
On the joyful side-we had the most beautiful time in the Catlins, thanks to a gorgeous local family who loaned us their holiday home. Walking tracks, waterfalls, and evenings by the fire-nothing beats it! We also visited a wig provider in Christchurch and I found one I love-it's done wonders for my confidence.
Next month, we're heading to Wellington for a week-catching up with friends, Te Papa, and Wētā Workshops. We can't wait!
Thank you again for walking this with me. I feel so lucky to have all of you in my corner. 🤍
to my anonymous donor-I don't have the words. Your generosity has deeply moved me and I'm so deeply grateful. Thankyou, from the bottom of my heart ❤️
Thankyou so much-means a lot 💛💛
thankyou so much, Jess 💕
Oh my goodness-you two! I don't even have the words. Thankyou so much, this is so kind and generous and it means even more coming from you. Lots of love right back, and I hope we get to catch up sometime soon!! 🥰🥰
❤︎ ≽(•⩊ •マ≼ so appreciate you x
Your message will be displayed on the page and emailed to the donor.
Your new message will also be emailed to the donor.
Saving a blank entry will delete the current comment.