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Help Support Chris in the Fight of his life against an aggressive form of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cancer.

  • Keytruda Report Number 18

      26 March 2026
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    Hi everyone

    This will be the last Keytruda report presented on the Give-A-Little page as this page has now run its 12 month course

    Its been an intense 12 months of Keytruda treatments, scans, 3 x weekly blood tests, oncologist reviews and hospital visits

    So from the start of my cancer journey back in June 2024 we are only a couple months away from the two year mark

    This week I have had a full body PET CT scan to check for metastatic cancer, that is cancer that has spread to other locations in my body, the results will be a few days away

    I had blood tests this morning and have Keytruda treatment on Friday this week

    Just want to say a big thank-you to everyone who has supported me and if you would like to continue receiving up dates please feel free to contact me via email : penthouse2piha@xtra.co.nz

    Bless all of you and thank-you once again, lots love coming your way, the journey is not over

    Cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 17 Thursday 5th March

      6 March 2026
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    Hi everyone

    Lots to cover with this Keytruda report so lets get straight to the core. MRI scan shows a cancerous tumour 51 mm x 27 mm x 24 mm, this is RHS and just below the original cancer location which was removed and radiated November 2024

    The tumour is local but wraps around the jaw bone and has an ulcerated dermal surface, it deeply abuts the carotid and jugular vessels, it is also intimately associated with the tendon and muscle, there is no evidence of bone invasion at this stage.

    In the previous report I mentioned an infection this was still present at the time of the MRI, the scan cannot differentiate between the tumour and infection mass as they display very similarly so there is some margin for error in reading the scan result.

    Having said that looking visually and by clinical examination the SCC cancer is still definitely in residence so I will be embarking on another year of Keytruda treatment and associated interventions

    Love you all, thanks so much for helping and supporting me, all the very best cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 16 Thursday February 13th

      16 February 2026
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    Hi everyone

    Been a bit going on this last period, just had a range of blood tests, Keytruda uptake number 16 this Thursday, then Friday an MRI scan, which will take a few days before we get the results. The infection has hopefully gone after an extended course of antibiotics, and as pictured, the possible culprit of that infection has surfaced. The photo here shows a 6mm long surgical clip 1mm wide, crazy situation, I had no idea this was hiding in my face from the operation about 15 months ago.

    So there is still a sizeable wound, just waiting to see if this will self-repair, now the offending piece of metal has been rejected by my body

    Fair to say I am slightly nervous while we wait for the scan results; there's literally nothing I can do but pray and hope the scan shows a positive result to move forward. I will keep you all informed as we go, as always, thank you for your continued support and messages, it means a huge amount to me, sending lots of love to all of you!

    Cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 15

      24 January 2026
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    We have hit a small speed bump; the cancer invaders have brought in reinforcements in the form of an infection, which has us backpedalling somewhat. This came very fast, so now we have a cancer and an infection combo going on, oh what joy to behold.

    So we are full steam ahead with the Keytruda treatment clubbed together with a barrage of antibiotics at the rate of eight tablets a day for the next 17 days. This is an interruption I could well do without.

    Its really not a laughing matter, but, I find myself chuckling as I shake my head in disbelief of the bad luck.

    Never mind, I will get through this. As they say, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger - so I will take that as inspiration!

    At this time though, I cant get those poor people out of my mind who are lost in the aftermath of the land slip at Mount Maunganui. I am sending all my hope and love to them and their families because they need it more than me at the moment.

    Bless you all

    Cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Treatment number 14 - update Wednesday 31st 2025

      1 January 2026
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    Happy New Year Everyone - 2026 has a nice ring to it !

    So my last Keytruda treatment for 2025 is done, oncologist review as well and yes, unfortunately, there is still cancer head and neck, but a very marked reduction, so three more treatments left to finish this course, then another set of 17 Keytruda treatments for the remainder of 2026 and into 2027 are planned.

    As a new year begins, the battle lines are reformed. These cancer invaders think they can hang around a bit longer, but I am only just getting started, and my resolve is strong!

    Another MRI head / neck / and chest scan is being strategically planned to coincide with the fresh Keytruda campaign. It's a long time in the MRI Scanner, around 3 hours. If you have ever had one of these, you will know the dexterity required by the patient is huge.

    That's it guys Im gearing up, bless you all, love you all and thanks once again for your beautiful support cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 13: 13th December - Update from Chris

      14 December 2025
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    Hi Everyone,

    Lucky for some number 13, and that's what I'm going with, as I specifically waited till Saturday 13th December to write about my Keytruda treatment.

    And so it will be, as the 200 mls of pembrolizumab flows into my veins - go you good thing, show no mercy to my cancer invaders as we mop up what's left of thy rebel bandits.

    I feel good, and the significant reduction in what I can see of the cancer war zone on my face is mentally soothing, but I know the battle still rages below the surface. I can feel it, so although we are winning the fight, I must remain relentless and ruthless in my endgame.

    Stay tuned as we push forward with last rolls of the dice, lucky 13 on under over Blackjack in a game for life !

    Love you all, cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 12: Thursday 20th November - Update from Chris

      20 November 2025
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    Happy days, still tracking ok. I had an oncologist appointment today, together with Keytruda treatment number 12, and all is positive - so smiles all round.

    Blood tests are great and all within the parameters. The Keytruda can play havoc with the liver, amongst other side effects, but everything at this stage is behaving.

    I am quietly confident, but won't stretch to opening the champagne just yet.

    Lining up for another MRI scan next year, that will expose the truth of the matter, because like an iceberg, what you can see is only part of the picture. The scan will show whats happening under the skin.

    Rock on I say, I am still feeling good, things to do, places to be. And it's thanks to each and every one of you for getting me to this good place!

    Lots of love coming your way people, cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 11: Thursday 30th October - Update from Chris

      31 October 2025
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    Well over a year ago now, I started on this cancer journey, looking back now, I can only feel so grateful and loved what a beautiful bunch of friends and family I have supporting me.

    Just had Keytruda treatment number 11 yesterday, 6 more to go, those cancer invaders are retreating and I am feeling so fortunate that this is working.

    I am frightened of being too happy, so wont break out the party just yet, but am confident we are winning now.

    The attached photo shows how I feel, BBQs and happy days are coming so please join me in a virtual hug! I love everyone of you!

    Thanks guys, stay cool and enjoy life cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 10: Thursday 09th October - Update from Chris

      13 October 2025
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    Hi Everyone,

    Things are going well. I just had Keytruda treatment number 10. The cancer site is reducing in size, the tightness under my mouth is slowly going away, and the team is hopeful. No pain at the moment, eating okay, and feeling good, so a nice short report this time round.

    I am not completely out of the woods, but certainly tracking well and summer is coming, so what more could you ask for?

    Will chat again soon, thanks everyone for your ongoing support and sending lots of love your way!

    Cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 9 Thursday 18th September - Update from Chris

      19 September 2025
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    Summer is knocking on the door, and with that comes a fresh enthusiasm for life. Outside, the gardens are enriched with new growth, and the flowers are dancing around nodding their petals in agreement.

    It certainly is a beautiful feeling, and its encouraged me to push on with renewed vigour, recharging, a sense of peace, and a focus to deal with my cancer invaders once and for all.

    I don't want to put the mockers on it, but there are very positive signs starting to show at the cancer site, albeit slowly, but in my favour by the looks.

    Yes, there are a ways to go yet, now about halfway with my scheduled treatments. Whats around the corner, only the big fella knows, but at the moment I am feeling happy, so I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy life, its really what we are here for!!

    Cheers Chris

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  • Keytruda Report number 8 Thursday 28th August - Update from Chris

      29 August 2025
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    Well, what a roller coaster ride this cancer journey is, highs and lows, mixed emotions playing havoc.

    So I did have an operation scheduled for Friday 29th August, with plastics at Waikato hospital to remove more of the cancer. The day before on the 28th I had an oncologist appointment and a Keytruda uptake.

    Every cancer is different in its behaviour and you need to be on your game as these cancer invaders are cunning, just when we all think plan "A" is on track, plan "B" and even "C" might be happening instead, so it can all change very quickly.

    After consultation, my operation is now delayed (with a days notice before it was due). For the moment, Keytruda uptake will continue as scheduled and other Immunotherapy drugs are introduced for discussion and now even a different style of radiation is reintroduced as an option.

    Options, strategies, being fluid and open-minded to constant change is part of the journey these days. Whew, sometimes you just have to laugh to get through, but with your support we are still in the game!

    Thanks and lots of love to everyone

    Cheers Chris xxx

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  • Keytruda Report number 7 Thursday 7th August - Update from Chris

      11 August 2025
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    Hi everyone

    Well, here we are, number seven of seventeen treatments and the MRI scan result is showing a larger cancer than when we started. It's a changing thing now, not as deep but the circumference of the cancer site looks very large.

    The oncologist is saying we must be patient, still having confidence in the process, she is monitoring regularly every three weeks.

    Plan "B" after lots of options discussed could be a blend of another immunotherapy drug with the Keytruda, think of it as another army reinforcement, more boots on the ground attacking my unwanted invaders.

    There are exposed nerves now and the cancer has caused issues with my jaw hinge, I can’t fully open my mouth and there is swelling that is putting pressure on my ear. Despite the constant pain, I am still feeling ok generally, so this has got to be good, and my bloods are still ok around vital organs, so boxing on and living with hope.

    This may be almost like a stuck record and possibly getting a little boring, but its real and somehow I have to keep fighting with fresh vigour and you guys are my armour, thanks for all your support, lots of love cheers Chris

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  • 6th Keytruda Treatment - Thursday 17th June - Update from Chris

      18 July 2025
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    Hi Everyone,

    So I have had another follow-up with the Oncologist and then Keytruda uptake number six. There is still a large cancer site, not showing too many positive signs. I now have a reasonable amount of pain in the jaw line and into the ear and surrounding area, so regular pain management is required. Some slight swelling in the same location and onto the original cancer operation site as well.

    All of this together leaves no choice but to get another scan, this time an MRI. I will be in Hamilton later today getting this done, but unfortunately results will be about a week, however, I will keep everyone informed.

    Lots of love your way and thanks once again for your support. Have a fantastic weekend - cheers Chris

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  • 5th Keytruda Treatment - Thursday 26th June - Update from Chris

      30 June 2025
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    Hope and support are two massive pieces of the puzzle on this life journey, take one of these away and the entire possibility of a good outcome fades rapidly.

    I am responsible for the hope and resilience to fight on, and all you good people out there are giving me the support I need every day. It just helps so much knowing I have a team behind me sending out the good vibes, thanks so much!

    So the oncologist had a very detailed look at the cancer site last week, we also involved the plastic surgeon who did the initial operation back in November 2024, and some trained nurses took a peek and of course, what I told them was also a deciding factor on what direction we are heading.

    To be fair the cancer site looks a lot larger which is a bit scary, but its a changing thing and it is not really giving away a clear picture yet of whether we are beating the cancer or not. Another scan will not help at this stage as we know I have cancer, we just need to see a positive change to the cancer site.

    So a decision has been made to carry on with the Keytruda treatment, lots of hope and your support, there are 17 scheduled treatments so roll on number six in three weeks time, I want to beat this if I can, bless you all cheers Chris.

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  • 4th Keytruda Treatment - Thursday 05th June - Update from Chris

      11 June 2025
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    So just had Keytruda cycle number four, not much has changed in the last three weeks, still a large cancer site which is checked and dressed daily, often twice a day. Im feeling good so thats fantastic, the main thing with my cancer is to stop it travelling to another place in my body, so far we have succeeded with that.

    There is an oncologist visit in another three weeks that will be a deciding assessment for how the treatment is going so maybe more to share after that appointment.

    A Bit of Fun

    Gotta have the Ology --- The stuff of lots of Knowledgy --- Get the Pathology --- lookin at Urology ---Check me out Radiology ----Friends of Plastology ---Need some Oncology ---Working through the Terminology --- No not Zoology or Pyrology nor Geneology or Toxicology --- but closer to Biology and Cancerology --- Thats the Ideology ---- Stay safe Ology

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  • 3rd Keytruda Treatment - Thursday 15th May - Update from Chris

      16 May 2025
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    I have taken a photo of me with a smile because I am blessed with so many beautiful friends and family supporting me and that makes me feel good.

    I have now had my third of 17 Keytruda uptakes for this year. A quick reminder the cancer drug, 200 mls of it, is delivered intravenously direct into a main vein and takes about 30-40 min to complete the process each time.

    Keytruda is an immunotherapy drug which works by helping your immune system identify cancer cells which are very clever at hiding within your body, its your own immune system that destroys the cancer by sending out what are called T cells through the body to hunt down and find the cancer, its an amazing breakthrough for cancer sufferers producing great outcomes.

    Recently Pharmac announced additional funding of Keytruda in New Zealand (1st June 2025), unfortunately the type of cancer I have is still not included. I have checked direct with Pharmac and my specialist Oncologist, so as a family we are still bearing the costs which are significant.

    Keytruda is funded currently for many cancers in NZ and the next round will benefit melanoma patients and some patients who are suffering side effects from cancer drugs. The funding lines and eligibility criteria are strict and at the moment I do not meet the criteria, so boxing on with all we have.

    What makes all of this doable is all you beautiful people out there sending your love and support, Karen and I will be forever grateful. Thanks and bless you all - Chris

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  • 2nd Keytruda Treatment - Thursday 24th April

      26 April 2025
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    An update from Chris:

    Three weeks has flown by, and here I am again at Salutis Care Hamilton for my second round of Keytruda uptake. I am feeling good, no real side effects from Keytruda at this stage other than a desire to take afternoon naps quite regularly.

    Another Oncologist appointment last week revealed nothing out of the ordinary. With the blood test monitoring, they check all sorts of things like liver, kidneys, thyroid, and the blood tests are only carried out early morning, each time they take three vials of my blood.

    The cancer on my face is not healing at all and that is to be expected at this stage because of the amount of radiation I have received, and of course there is cancer there, so still early days on how this will settle down - time will tell.

    It does feel good when the Keytruda is being delivered into my body as it is an instant "feel good" knowing that there is an excellent chance this drug can turn the tide in my favour and knock off the cancer invaders.

    There is still a very long way to go with my treatment, and as you can all see, the "Give A Little" page has gathered a wonderful, strong starting support from far and wide. It is a massive help both financially and mentally for us as we walk this journey.

    Karen and I cannot thank you enough for all the love that is flowing in our direction, in return we send all our love and bless each and every one of you. Thanks Chris and Karen xxx

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    • 27/04/2025 by Fay

      Dear Chris and Karen,thank you for the update as I think of you often,so happy there are no side effects this time as it can make life hell,naps are healing so enjoy,I’m feeling good so we are making the most of life and doing a bucket list trip to Canada and Alaska in May,best wishes and love ,

  • 1st Keytruda Treatment - Thursday 3rd April

      4 April 2025
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    Chris asked if I could post this update - thanks Mark

    "The very much anticipated day has arrived, Thursday 3rd April, Keytruda day, feeling a little nervous with a raw sense of trepidation, just like I'm about to embark on a journey into uncharted waters.

    The nurses and staff are well trained and very soon have me calmed and feeling at ease as they prepare me for the first 30 minute uptake of this cancer wonder drug, it comes highly rated and with good outcomes, so I'm in your hands Keytruda go do your thing please, only 16 more cycles to do this year after this one, every three weeks with a blood test before each treatment

    Before the next treatment I will also have a specialist oncologist assessment to make sure we are tracking correctly. There are so many different variables and possible side effects to consider and be aware of.

    First treatment completed now and I am feeling relief and excitement at what this drug can do. Just the fact that I have started the fight back and shot some rounds at the enemy invaders is a fantastic feeling.

    Thankyou to everyone, without you all at my side this is a battle that would be impossible to fight - lots of love coming your way. Cheers Chris "

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