Annabel's Next Step

Her story goes like this:

Annabel is mum to Briar, William, George and Edward (all in their early twenties) who she has raised as a solo parent. She is a valued member of a small community, playing a role in many charitable causes. She was diagnosed with NETs in 2011.

The only drug available in New Zealand that is known to keep this cancer at bay has an 80% chance of inhibiting the growth of or even shrinking the tumours. Annabel was in the minority 20% - the drug hasn't worked.

Since diagnosis the cancer has metastasised severely to most of her abdomen, particularly her liver, and more recently to her spine. This small but tight family unit has banded together to beat the odds; Annabel survived what was supposed to be an unsurvivable open heart surgery in May to replace two valves that were destroyed by her cancer. Thanks to the unexpected success of this surgery, she can now finally look to cancer treatment, and has recently had the fantastic news that the Peter Mac Cancer Institute in Melbourne has given her the green light to proceed with their unique treatment. Not everyone makes the cut for this treatment, making it even more exciting for Annabel to be able to give it a go. There is a high success rate which can add years to the tenure of her life and vastly improve its quality. She is not ready to leave this wonderful world yet!

Unfortunately the rarity of NETs and the fact that Annabel can only receive treatment offshore in Melbourne means that giving it a go comes at a cost. It is not a small cost. Tens of thousands are required but every dollar will be invaluable.

Annabel is always, without fail, the first person to put her hand up and help others whenever she can. She and her family have come this far by carrying each other along with courage and strength, and by embracing the support of amazing friends. Let's keep this support going and do our bit to help get Annabel to Melbourne and buy her some more precious time with her family. She has always taught her four kids to at least give everything their best shot, and now we want to give Annabel the chance to do just that. She deserves it!