Help our mum Shirley on her journey to fight a rare Cholangiocarcinoma

Our mum, Shirley, has played an instrumental role in the Waikare Valley community since she moved to the valley at 18. In her professional years she worked across the education sector, in teacher aid, transport and Board of Trustee roles, finishing her career at Bay of Island's College leading the Gateway Program. Personally, mum has been a quiet force for our community and marae, always supporting whānau, holding key roles at the marae, and giving her time to others. Now she’s facing her toughest challenge and needs us....

In January, Mum was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma – a rare cancer in her bile duct. Due to the location, it is inoperable and can’t be treated with radiotherapy. She started chemotherapy in March and, to everyone’s relief, is responding well. Her tumour markers have dropped, and she’s regaining her strength.

That response has opened a window of hope. Her oncology team is now suggesting immunotherapy and genomic testing to access targeted treatments. The health system in New Zealand doesn't cover the level of treatment mum needs, so we are fundraising upwards of $60,000 to support:

- Private oncology and testing

- Unfunded Immunotherapy drugs (e.g. durvalumab)

- Access to trials (which are not funded)

- Travel, imaging, and treatment support

Mum has spent a lifetime giving to others. Now we’re asking for help to give her the best chance at more time with her mokopuna and whānau.

Ngā mihi nui,

Shirley’s whānau