Help Chris Battle Cancer

$9,205 of $77,000 goal

Given by 87 generous donors in 23 days

Chris has an aggressive form of melanoma cancer and requires the lifesaving drug Keytruda for a minimum of 1 year which is not funded.

Morrinsville, Waikato

My close friend Chris was diagnosed with Stage 3C melanoma cancer in Dec 2023 after her hairdresser noticed a change in a mole on her ear which couldn't be seen or felt by Chris. Within 24hrs of seeing a Specialist, Chris had surgery to remove the top part of her ear, followed by a 2nd operation 3 weeks later resulting in the total loss of her ear.

The tumour has now returned in the same place. There is no more surgery or talk of radiotherapy for now. Keytruda is the only anti-cancer drug recommended and requires infusions every 3 weeks for 17 cycles (1 year). It is not funded in NZ and the drug alone costs $77,000 for the year plus $25k for administering this drug, use of the oncology, equipment and nurses time.

Chris and her husband Brett are facing a tremendously tough time ahead financially. When I approached them about the Give a Little Page they were very reluctant to go down this path until reality sunk in.

Chris is a very generous person of her time, having served the Morrinsville community incl Meals on Wheels.

She has been a motivator for me and together we've done a half marathon, and other various fun runs. While undergoing Keytruda she still pushes herself to stay fit and healthy attending pilates, gym classes and going on bush walks with Brett even when she is feeling tired.

To alleviate the financial burden for Chris and her family, I am hoping to fully fund her Keytruda through this page.

A big thank you in advance for your kindness and support.

Jo Robb's involvement (page creator)

I first met Chris 18 years when we worked together. We became great friends and competed in many walks & runs and enjoyed many social outings together.

She is very generous with her time and always makes you feel very welcome in her home.

Use of funds

Funds will be used solely to pay for the Keytruda Drug. Totalling $77,000 for the next 12 months.

Update on Chris' third surgery 19 May 2024

Hi All, Chris has been recovering from her third op having more melanoma removed around and inside her ear canal. A skin graft was used from skin on her neck. Very clever work by the surgeon although the skin graft is still very swollen and dark looking until the top skin falls off. He did a great job taking skin from her neck which is healing very nicely. With the swelling she couldn’t hear, until the surgeon inserted a tube into her ear. It’s amazing what can be done.

Again, she’d like to thank everyone so much for their generous donations and the meals, flowers and heart felt wishes sent. This support gives Chris the encouragement to remain positive to face the challenges ahead.

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