Help Support Davina’s Battle Against Cancer

$15,401 donated

Given by 445 generous donors in 4 weeks

Davina is battling stage 3 Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Her oncologists have given her only months to live.

Nationwide

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Our beloved friend and sister, Davina, has recently been diagnosed with cancer. For those fortunate enough to know her, Davina has always been a beacon of inspiration. Her achievements in sports and fitness, her trailblazing research on te maramataka (the Maori lunar calendar), and her tireless advocacy for Rongoa Maori (traditional Maori healing) have all been testaments to her dedication and passion for improving the lives of others.

One of our fondest memories of Davina is her humble café, Wharekai, in her hometown of Matata, Bay of Plenty. She pioneered the concept of ‘kawhe for koha,’ exchanging espresso coffee for whatever the recipient could offer, from cash to kumara. This spirit of giving and community has been a trademark of her life.

However, Davina’s most cherished role is that of a loving mother and wife. With six beautiful children ranging in ages from 5 to 23, the thought of her not being there to guide, support, and celebrate their lives is heart-wrenching.

Davina has a GoFundMe page (https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-mothers-battle-for-life-please-help-me-fight-rare-cancer), but due to its Australian platform, many in Aotearoa have found it difficult to contribute. To make it easier, we have set up an alternative donation page with her NZ bank account details. As of July 26 at 8:10 pm NZ time, we need to raise $10,500 to help Davina get to Mexico for treatment as comfortably and safely as possible.

We are determined to fight alongside her and do everything we can to support her. We invite you to join us in this battle by donating or sharing her story.

Aroha Sweeney's involvement (page creator)

Davina is a beautiful sister, an amazing friend, and one of the most inspiring people I know.

Use of funds

Davina has found a promising treatment in Mexico at Arukah Integrative Health (https://arukahintegrativehealth.com/) that could extend her time with her children and improve her quality of life. However, the $40,000 cost is beyond her means. Extra funds will cover ongoing treatment expenses and enhance her quality of life.

Latest update

3 days to go….. 25 August 2024

As we near the end of our Givealittle campaign, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Your heartfelt messages, your willingness to share Davina’s story, and your remarkable generosity have made a world of difference. Reaching our goal on this platform is a significant achievement that wouldn’t have been possible without your unwavering support.

However, Davina’s journey is far from over. With just three days remaining on this campaign, I’m making one final request—whether it’s through another donation, sharing her story once more, or following and supporting her journey on other platforms.

Your support has been nothing short of invaluable, and it remains critical as Davina continues her fight. Thank you for standing by her side during this challenging time.

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