In early 2024 Ben was diagnosed with throat cancer. The treatment was cruel, and now he faces losing his job.

Ben is passionate about the health and wellbeing of the oceans and beaches we enjoy.

In early 2024 Ben was told he had throat cancer. He underwent surgery, chemotherapy and a rigorous course of radiation, 5 days per week for 7 weeks. They said it would be very unpleasant; that was an understatement. Medical advice was to take at least 6 months off work post-treatment for his throat and neck to fully heal and recover.

Ben used all his leave, including some compassionate leave. Only 2 months after treatment ended, he was back at work to because he had bills to pay. That early return to work has had a serious impact on his overall health and well-being. Now his job has been terminated – his vehicle, phone and computer all go with the job.

Ben is now job-hunting, not easy in Wellington's very challenging work environment. He worries about meeting even his and his daughter’s basic living costs.

Over the last couple of decades, Ben has given a lot to our communities and our environment, in his work and as a volunteer, especially as a trustee of the Guardians of the Kapiti Marine Reserve. He is key in marshaling people and resources to protect our marine environments for all our benefit.

You can help give Ben some much-needed relief. We, Ben's family, are supporting him in a number of ways, but it's not enough. Some extra financial support would be gratefully appreciated to help Ben continue his great work as a warrior for our oceans and beaches and to ease the pressures he faces.