Getting Lauren To The Winning Post With Her Cancer Battle

$62,968 of $80,000 goal
Given by 314 generous donors in 2 days

Let's help Lauren in her fight against Stage 4 Melanoma. We’re standing by Lauren and asking our industry participants to do the same!

Waikato

We are writing today on behalf of one of our own, Team Te Akau member Lauren, who is facing an incredibly difficult battle. Recently, Lauren received the devastating news that her cancer has returned, and she is now fighting Stage 4 Melanoma that has spread to multiple areas of her body.

One thing we all love about the racing industry is the passion we share for our horses and those who work within it, so we hope the industry and wider connections can rally behind Lauren in this time of need.

This news has been heartbreaking for all of us, as Lauren is an integral part of the Te Akau team, working both in the Matamata office and with our equine friends. She brings such passion and dedication to her job, and now we are determined to stand right with her and support her through this tough challenge.

Lauren has been working with specialists, and it has been determined that her best chance for survival lies in a combined therapy treatment. Fortunately, she is able to access funded Pembrolizumab, but the second critical drug, Ipilimumab, which is crucial for improving her chances of relapse-free survival, is not funded in New Zealand. The cost for four treatments is $80,000, and the treatment must begin within the next three weeks.

We’re standing by Lauren and asking for your help. Any contribution, no matter how big or small, will ease the financial burden and support her in accessing this life-saving treatment.

You've got this, Lauren — we are behind you!

Thank you for your support!

Te Akau Racing's involvement (page creator)

Employer - Te Akau Racing

Use of funds

All funds raised will go directly towards Lauren's cancer treatment (Ipilimumab) as well as helping to reduce the financial hardship during this challenging time.

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Latest update

Treatment #1  6 October 2024

Posted by: Lauren Russo

Just thought I would let everyone know that I had my first combined treatment 2 weeks ago.

I apologise that I didn’t put an update sooner but it’s been hard to keep up with everything!

It all went well and I am fortunate to have the best nurses and doctors looking after me.

It is not lost on us how lucky we are to be able to now access this treatment and we are so grateful!

Thank you everyone so so much for your support. It has been an extremely humbling experience and I am forever grateful for your support!

Also, a big thank you to the amazing team at Te Akau Racing, they have supported me from the start and I’m lucky to work with such a great team.

Much love, Lauren.

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Latest donations

Judy &  Selwyn
Judy & Selwyn on 12 Sep 2024
Private
Andaleeb
Andaleeb on 12 Sep 2024
$100
Emma
Emma on 12 Sep 2024
$100
Mariko Blake-Palmer
Mariko Blake-Palmer on 12 Sep 2024
Keep strong Lauren, you got this! ❤ Blake-Palmer family xx
$50
Mark
Mark on 12 Sep 2024
Lauren you look far too lovely to leave this place yet!
$100

Who's involved?

Te Akau Racing's avatar
Created by Te Akau Racing (Business)
Lauren Russo's avatar
Paying to a verified bank account of Lauren Russo
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This campaign started on 10 Sep 2024 and ended on 12 Sep 2024.