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Long Life For Lauren

  • Final Update

      7 March 2022
    Posted by: Kevin and Vanessa Russo
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    Well, finally after a year I can say that I’ve finished my treatment and am officially in remission! 17 cycles of Pembro and a full year of appointments, scans and difficult decisions have all led to today.

    The last year and a half has been a complete roller coaster, full of ups and downs. There have definitely been struggles and it’s been particularly hard at times but hopefully, this is the end of any treatment. I will continue to be monitored for the next 5 years, so it’s not the end however we’re hopeful that the immunotherapy has done its job!

    This year has brought so many amazing people and things into my life. I’m so incredibly grateful, it overwhelms me thinking of the generosity and support I have received from everyone. There is no way I would have been able to get through this without the amazing people that have helped me or offered kindness in so many ways. To all of you who have donated, messaged and supported me in various ways, I just can’t thank you enough.

    I feel so so lucky. I remember last year, writing my original post and being so distraught, I wanted to manage this on my own and thought that no one would care. I could not have been proven more wrong. You have all helped us beyond anything we had ever imagined and I have been overwhelmed by how people have been so willing to help us and get us through this. The fundraisers and willingness of people to work towards me being able to access this treatment was phenomenal.

    I have met the most beautiful people, experienced some great moments and learnt so much. I can’t thank everyone individually but please know how much I appreciate all of you. Know that if you ever need anything I would be humbled to help.

    Lastly, I would like to thank my family. I can never thank my parents and greater family enough. There is no way I would’ve gotten through any of this without you all. I’m so privileged to have the most incredible support network. You have seen me through from the start and I know you will continue to support me from this point onwards. I know I haven’t always been the easiest (especially with needles 😅) but you’ve been there through thick and thin. I love you!

    I hope this is the last post I will have to make and I can continue with my work that I love and look towards whatever the future holds!

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  • Second Update

      2 August 2021
    Posted by: Kevin and Vanessa Russo
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    Hi everyone,

    I haven't done an update for a while, but there's been a lot going on! My treatment has been going well, I have had my sixth cycle and the last CT scan came back clear. I have a few side effects but learning to manage them. But all signs so far are positive.

    I want to give a big 'thank you' to the NZTBA Waikato who put on an amazing Quiz Night at the Good Merchant in Matamata on 21st July. There was a great turnout and atmosphere. Thanks to those who attended and the generosity of the auction winners and participants, the overall amount raised was $7500! I can't thank the committee, sponsors and all those who attended the night enough, for choosing to support me. I am so lucky and grateful for everything that people have done for me and the moral support as well.

    Thank you again to everyone for your incredible support and kindness.

    Lauren

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  • Quick Update

      28 May 2021
    Posted by: Kevin and Vanessa Russo
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    Hi everyone!

    I thought I would do a very quick update as to how things are going! I had my third treatment on the 17th May, which all went well, I am starting to have some more side effects but nothing too serious :)

    Luckily my treatment team agreed to push this treatment back, as the original date was scheduled for the day of my 21st Birthday. I was very very lucky to be able to able to get away for a week down South on a surprise trip that was planned before we realized what the future would hold.. It was great to get away from appointments and treatments for a bit! This infusion was actually sponsored by Errol Newlands and the Charity Golf Day. I am extremely grateful to Errol and his trustees for their generous assistance, they help so many people and are truly wonderful.

    Again, I would like to express my sincere and immense gratitude for all your support. I can never thank everyone enough, it is just incredible how much has been raised and the generosity of so many people. I am so humbled and overwhelmed.

    I will continue to keep everyone updated. As much as this experience is difficult, I am so lucky in so many ways to have such amazing people behind me and to be able to access this treatment.

    Not such a short update in the end but much love to you all- Lauren

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    • 31/05/2021 by Robyn

      Lauren, stay strong and believe in yourself and your abilities - we are all behind you!! You may not know our names or have met us but we are with you on your journey! Best wishes and kind regards x

  • Message from Lauren

      8 April 2021

    WOW! I’m so totally overwhelmed with with the generosity and kindness of people. I honestly never imagined that so many people would care and donate so much!

    I am so so so grateful to everyone- the people who have commented, messaged, donated, shared. You have all made a huge difference! All the donations are amazing and I never had any expectation of people to donate but to all those who have (big and small!) and those anonymous donors you are incredible.

    I seriously wish I could personally thank every single one of you. Even though I can’t see you all, each and every person who has supported myself and my family are just so so amazing. If I can ever repay people or return the favour please let me know, I would do anything for all of you. Thank you so much 🥰❤️

    I will keep you all up to date with how my treatments are going- my second is on the 19th April.. currently one down, 16 to go!

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    • 13/04/2021 by Jessica

      This is so amazing! You and your lovely family deserve all the love and support Lauren! Keep being strong - you got this! ❤️