Help for Jim Donald and family

Jim was first diagnosed with glioblastoma in September 2024. Glioblastoma is the most aggressive and deadly form of brain cancer. At the time of diagnosis, Jim was given just 15 months to live.

He immediately underwent surgery to remove the tumour, followed by radiation and chemotherapy. Despite everything, Jim continued to live life to the fullest. He returned to work, married his beautiful wife Tracy, celebrated his daughter Isobel’s 21st birthday, and even completed renovations around the house.

Unfortunately, during a routine scan in August this year, it was discovered that the tumour had returned. While it was considered operable again, the second surgery was not as successful. Jim underwent radiation once more, but sadly the tumour had already returned again. Since then, it has grown into his skull, showing just how aggressive the cancer is and that it is no longer responding to treatment.

At this stage, we are finding it incredibly difficult to access timely support through the public healthcare system. With NASC assessment wait times exceeding a month, our family has been left to source and fund private caregivers ourselves.

We are raising funds so that Jim can spend the time he has left comfortably, with dignity, and surrounded by care in his own home.

Any remaining funds will be used to cover funeral costs or donated to the NZ brain tumour support organisation.