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!
Employer - Te Akau Racing
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.
Latest update 6 January 2025
This is a difficult update to make today, Lauren finished the last of her double immunotherapy treatments at the end of November and other than some nasty side effects she was doing well. She continued with immunotherapy (Keytruda only) and we were awaiting a CT scan when just prior to Christmas Lauren began to experience some weakness in her left side, unfortunately on Friday we found out Lauren has a mass in her brain, currently she is in Waikato hospital awaiting neurosurgery. We are forever grateful to everyone for their kindness and amazing support and donations, and while this wasn’t the result we were hoping for we know Lauren will continue to fight this as she always has.
Vanessa (Lauren’s Mum)
Photo attached from Boxing Day
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