Memories to leave behind for my loved ones

Steven has in-operable cancer. With limited time left his final wish is to travel NZ to create memories with his family.

Steven is just 30 years old. He has worked over 12 years for his first & only employer Pak'nSAVE, New Plymouth. He never took time off unless he was desperately ill. His bosses even had to insist he took holidays to use up his time owing. This was the case again in January this year (2020). He had over a month owing so he planned to relax and do some work on his home. He has not been able to return to work since.

During that month Steven developed severe pain and urgent tests resulted in bad news. He has cancer in the bowel, liver and lymph nodes. Radiation and Chemo followed but has not had the results he hoped for. The next option is tens of thousands of dollars for unfunded Chemotherapy out of town, also with no hope of curing this ugly disease.

Steven’s father, Errol, was diagnosed with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) when he was 10 years old. FAP is a rare bowel disease. Errol married Suzy and unfortunately all 3 of their children inherited the disease. Melissa died post-op in 1994 when she was just 10 years old. Matthew almost died in 2016 as a result of surgical errors and spent nearly 5 months in Auckland Hospital, miles away from family & friends. Now Steven is fighting for his own life.

If the latest tests prove the expensive Chemo is not compatible with Steven’s cancer, then his dream is to explore some of NZ with his family while he is still feeling reasonably well. He would like to create some happy memories to leave behind for his loved ones.

Steven is currently living off his WINZ sickness benefit which covers his essential bills, and there is little left for anything extra. This has left him no choice but to cut into his savings just to cover everyday living costs. Please could you assist us with donations.