Help Tomo get the crucial treatment he needs to survive

In February 2023, Tomo and Leslie Shibata found themselves facing an unexpected challenge, after Tomo was diagnosed with advanced bile duct cancer, shortly after the joyous arrival of their first child. Tomo is absolutely determined to fight against his illness. However, the specific drug required for his type of cancer is not funded in New Zealand, leading him to seek treatment in his homeland of Japan.

As his battle against cancer has intensified, there is a ray of hope in the form of a potential life-saving stem cell therapy. This comes with a substantial price tag of $24,000 for six sessions, adding to the huge financial burden already shouldered by the Shibata family. So far, Leslie, Tomo's wife, made the difficult decision to remain in New Zealand so that she could continue working to cover the escalating medical costs. But in order to be by his side during the period of treatment, Leslie needs to fly first to the Philippines to leave their baby son in the care of family, and then on to support Tomo in Japan.

No matter how small your contribution, every dollar is an act of kindness which will help secure the funds needed for Tomo's crucial treatments and for Leslie to be by his side throughout this challenging time. Thank you for your incredible support.

Please see Tomo's previous Givealittle page here: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/support-for-tomo-to-overcome-his-bile-duct-cancer