Claire and Matt have been to hell and back. Let's show them some love!!!!

Claire & Matt are two exceptional people. They have two kids aged 11 & 9. Unfortunately they are no stranger to the challenges of life.

In 2011 Matt was diagnosed with stage 3 bladder cancer. He underwent chemotherapy and three major operations during which his bladder and a portion of his bowel were removed. Matt still experiences complications as a result of the procedure.

Little did they know what was around the corner.

After experiencing abdominal pain in late 2022 a scan revealed a cyst on Claire’s right Ovary.

She was referred to a gynaecologist and had the cyst removed. The histology report revealed it was a tumour.

Following this discovery Claire required a total abdominal hysterectomy which was completed in January 2023. A second histology report diagnosed Claire with ovarian cancer.

The hysterectomy was a significant operation and Claire used up all of her sick leave allocation. She has recently started 6 cycles of chemotherapy which will take her off work for a further 7-8 months. Claire has worked as a nurse for the last 22 years at Auckland City Hospital and says “it sure is strange being on the other side”. Due to the nature of her job Claire will be unable to work during this time and has been off work since late last year.

The next 8 months are going to be extremely challenging. Matt and Claire will be down to one income and face a significant mortgage increase in mid April. They need our help.