Supporting Marcus Through Brain Cancer

$8,790 donated

Given by 88 generous donors in 9 weeks

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Brain cancer is relentless. So are we. Help us fund more time together - one infusion at a time.

Manawatu / Whanganui

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Marcus and Kara are navigating the unthinkable with his brain cancer; they shouldn't have to worry about money as well.

Kara and Marcus met in 2008 studying vet technology/nursing together at Massey. They married in 2012 and have a loving, supportive marriage. If you know them, you know their generosity and the love they pour into their families, pets, community, and teaching.

At 31, Marcus was diagnosed with grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma, an aggressive brain tumour with a poor prognosis. With tenacious support from Kara, he underwent brain surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and rehabilitation. Marcus was cancer-free for several years, likely due to his positive attitude and hard work and Kara's ongoing support and research.

Unfortunately, Marcus was back in hospital in Jan 2026 with four new tumours and a new diagnosis of grade 4 brain cancer. He had another surgery, more radiation and chemotherapy. Marcus now needs an unfunded drug (bevacizumab), costing $30-60K per year, to help fight the remaining tumours and give him as much quality time as possible. We are raising funds to help pay for this treatment.

Marcus has been off work for most of this year and has recently gone back to teach two classes a week, while he's able. Kara has reduced her work hours for his care. Money's tight and there's a lot to spend it on. If you are able, a little help or sharing this page would make all this a little easier.

Matilda Newton's involvement (page creator)

I am Kara's best friend (since high school) and closest non-family support person.

Use of funds

- An unfunded drug for Marcus (Bevacizumab or Vegzelma). This would cost $30k-$60k per year.

- Memory-making. Nice activities and trips to get away from things

- Helping make ends meet, given reduced work hours

- Unfunded counselling and other support services

September 2026 Update 9 September 2026

Hi friends, Kara here.

We were devastated when Marcus's August MRI confirmed that the two largest tumours (of four) were still growing aggressively despite chemo, and his chemo was halted after the 5th cycle. Being told the hospital has no further treatment options for Marcus was the worst news to hear.

We were referred to a private oncologist for bevacizumab (Avastin) - the unfunded drug we knew was likely coming. It works by reducing swelling and slowing tumour growth by inhibiting blood vessel formation. Marcus had his first infusion on Monday. Without it, we've been told his prognosis is in months. We are hopeful that bevacizumab will increase Marcus's quality of life and hold things at bay for as long as possible - hopefully turning those months into years.

We will be self-funding this at $27,000-$30,000 per year, thankfully less than we originally anticipated but still a big financial strain with us both working very limited hours. Thank you to everyone who has donated - all money raised so far will go towards the first 3 infusions. Please, please, share our Givealittle link to your own networks - even a small donation makes a real difference.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for continuing to show up for us.

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