Please Help Support Kiwi Mum Jolene after her son Ruben Carston Tragically Died, aged just 19yrs

Thankyou for your kindness, generosity, and love. Knowing people care about Ruben and our family has carried us through some of our darkest days.

Ruben was our beautiful son, we miss him every day. We’re doing our best to honour his life, keep his memory alive, and find the answers we need.

The Coroner’s investigation, forensic pathology, police work, and court proceedings are ongoing, so there are details I cannot share right now. I continue to support these processes.

The Health and Disability Commissioner has also begun an independent investigation into the health care Ruben received before his death. This is an important step, we will let it take its course.

I continue to seek the truth for Ruben and our family, have asked questions and shared information to ensure his story is heard and understood.

Life changed forever the day I found my beautiful son dead. He did not die from suicide. I need counselling and support to process the trauma of finding Ruben, losing him, and everything since. I am unable to work because of PTSD, while Dale continues working to support our family and carries his own grief. ACC has declined me support as not a physical injury. Victim Support has been unable to access financial assistance for us while legal processes are ongoing.

Any future support and donations are deeply appreciated. They help me access support I need and face challenges ahead.

Thankyou for remembering Ruben and standing with our family.

With love and gratitude,

Jolene