Our dearest Mary is facing every parent’s worst nightmare. On January 6th, Mary was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour.

$87,939 donated
Given by 746 generous donors in 13 days

Help Mary access life saving treatment and precious time with her children

Nationwide

Mary is a devoted mum to three beautiful children, aged 6, 9 and 11. She is the kind of mum, wife and friend (and veterinarian) who makes everyone feel deeply loved, always putting others first.

The brain tumour is large, located in a critical area of her brain, and there are multiple tumours already. We are awaiting biopsy results, everything has happened very fast and the shock is still settling in. Time is critical.

We are urgently trying to raise funds to give Mary every possible option in her fight, including access to specialised unfunded treatments and clinical trials in New Zealand and overseas. We are hopeful that Mary may be able to travel to Berlin if this becomes an option. These opportunities are time sensitive and costly, and not available through the public health system.

Mary’s wishes are heartbreakingly simple. To spend as many nights as possible cuddling her babies, to feel the water on her skin, to breathe in the sea air, and to soak up every moment of love.

This is incredibly difficult for Mary to process. We know many of you will want to reach out to her. At this stage, it is simply too much for Mary to manage, so we kindly ask that her wishes to not be contacted directly are respected. Please message Hayden or myself, or leave a message here.

Every donation, no matter the size, will make a real and immediate difference. Your kindness will help give Mary options, time, and security for her children. Thank you for your love, generosity and support.

Kylie Lawson's involvement (page creator)

Mary is my best friend of 20 years and the most caring special person who would do anything for anyone, stranger, friend, family or animal.

Use of funds

If treatment options are not viable, money raised will go directly towards Hayden and Mary’s three children, allowing him to step away from work to be by Mary’s side, and help cover urgent travel, living and accommodation costs for any treatment. I will update you as we know more and navigate through this journey.

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Latest update

Update on treatment for Mary   19 January 2026

We wanted to share an important update. Yesterday we met with an incredible private oncologist who showed such kindness and compassion. He even opened his practice on a Sunday so Mary could be seen and begin treatment as soon as possible. That generosity has given us the hope we so desperately needed.

Mary will be starting treatment this week and will be accessing everything available to her through private routes here in New Zealand. As she begins daily treatment, Mary will mostly be staying in Auckland, as the travel to and from Northland is too much while she focuses on treatment and rest.

We cannot thank you enough for the love, kindness, and support you have shown Mary, Hayden, and their family. Your very generous donations are making this possible and are allowing Mary to focus fully on her treatment and family. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

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Latest donations

Lanz and Steve
Lanz and Steve 3 hours ago
$20
Steve
Steve 3 hours ago
❤️❤️
$150
Peggy
Peggy 4 hours ago
All the best wishes Mary ❤️
$100
Industry branch of NZVA
Industry branch of NZVA 6 hours ago
Industry branch of NZVA
$4,000
CVMB branch of
CVMB branch of 6 hours ago
CVMB branch of NZVA
$500

Who's involved?

Kylie Lawson's avatar
Created by Kylie Lawson
Hayden Walker's avatar
Paying to a verified bank account of Hayden Walker on behalf of Mary Valintine
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This campaign started on 9 Jan 2026 and ends on 9 Feb 2026.