Please help 6 year old Reid (and his family) who has a rare type of brain tumour that requires life long management.
Otago
Reid was first diagnosed with Craniopharyngioma in 2019 just before his fourth Birthday. This is a rare type of benign tumour in the brain. Reid underwent surgery to remove the tumour just days before his Birthday at Starship Hospital. Sadly the surgeons were unable to remove all of the tumour due to it's position so Reid's parents Peter and Emma, were given the devastating news that the tumour could grow back within the next two years.
Reid recovered well from this surgery and after some recovery time returned to preschool.
Reid started school in June 2020 and is supported by Teacher Aides for his medical needs. He is loved by staff and students alike with his positive and good humoured personality.
Fast forward to April 2021 and Reid's three monthly MRI check found more tumour growth which meant more surgery at Starship. This surgery went well but was then complicated by Reid getting the flu and resulted in two more surgeries within the space of three days. Such a hard time for a wee 6 year old and Mum and Dad away from home and their other son.
As the Craniopharyngioma affects the function of the pituitary gland this has meant that Reid has a life time management of hypo-pituitarism requiring daily medication.
Craniopharyngioma also affects vision which means Reid is unable to see or read things like his peers. All of his school work is modified and he is learning some Braille.
Peter and Emma are both hard working parents who give their time to help others willingly. Due to Reid's regular appointments in Dunedin and this trip to Starship which is three weeks so far Peter and Emma have used most of their Annual and Sick Leave.
Funds raised will help support them financially and get back to their home in Oamaru and their 8 year old son Cruise.
I am a sister in-law of Peter and Emma and Reid's Aunty. As a family we would love to be able to support them by doing this small thing.
Any funds gratefully received will be used to cover the ongoing medical and travel costs associated with Reid's chronic illness. Reid requires several solu-cortef emergency kits and equipment to support his low vision which are not funded.
Lockdown 25 August 2021
The lockdown was quite timely in terms of rest and recovery time for Reid. The family have been busy on their farmlet catching up on jobs from being away as well as spending quality time together. Reid has been doing some school and Braille work, Zoom meetings with school and his BLENNZ Resource teacher.
Thanks for the continuing support, really means a lot.