Rikki has recently been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Help provide practical support to his partner Nykalah and family

$43,360 donated
Given by 917 generous donors in 9 weeks

Join us in supporting Rikki Tako & Nykalah Garrett, a brave New Plymouth family, faced with life changing news, and an awful challenge ahead

New Plymouth, Taranaki

In early November 2023, tragedy struck when Rikki was involved in a workplace accident. The impact resulted in a concussion, forcing him to take time off work. During this period, Rikki began experiencing seizures, memory loss, and headaches. His health deteriorated rapidly, leading to further investigations.

The diagnosis was devastating: a glioblastoma brainstem tumour. This aggressive form of cancer has no cure, and despite the involvement of specialists nationwide, it is ultimately terminal. Rikki has been given a prognosis of just a few months.

As you can imagine, this news has shattered Rikki and his young family. Facing such a diagnosis is a huge emotional and financial burden. Nykalah, Rikki’s partner, a newly registered nurse, has had to give up working to care for Rikki, who is already under the care of hospice. Their four children, Lyrik, 10, Harley, 9, Aurora 6, and Amethyst, 4, are at the heart of their world.

Rikki is unable to work due to his condition, and the stress of medical bills, travel expenses for nationwide appointments, and the desire to create lasting memories with his children weighs heavily on his partner Nykalah’s shoulders.

Donate today, and help ease the financial burden for this young family facing a devastating future.

Use of funds

Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. Your donation will directly support Rikki's medical needs, travel costs, and quality time with his kids.

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Latest update

Update   30 March 2024

Rikki passed away peacefully a week after nykala and rikki got married. He passed peacefully at home on 29/3/24

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Latest donations

Kirsty
Kirsty on 03 Apr 2024
Heartbreaking news. You have grief and enough to deal with, without financial burdens too. Sorry for your loss. I hope you have a support system/network who can wrap their arms around you.
$22
Marina
Marina on 03 Apr 2024
I am so saddened to hear of Rikki's passing and my most heartfelt thoughts are with you and your whanau at this time. I wish I could give more for you at this time. Tino arohanui ki a koutou.
Private
Rochelle
Rochelle on 03 Apr 2024
Thinking of you
$100
Jen
Jen on 02 Apr 2024
$20
Amy
Amy on 02 Apr 2024
💜
Private

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Nykala Garrett's avatar
Created by, and paying to a verified bank account of, Nykala Garrett
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This campaign started on 4 Mar 2024 and ends on 4 Jun 2024.