Your kindness gives Alvin more peace and time with loved ones

Two months ago, we learned that Alvin’s previously treated gastric cancer had returned and spread. Ever the fighter, he bravely tried Nivolumab immunotherapy to buy more time. Sadly, recent scans revealed a malignant bowel obstruction that cannot be operated on, as well as ascites, biliary dilation and truncation.

Alvin is now in hospice, where the focus is on keeping him as comfortable as possible as he fights against Stage 4 cancer.

Throughout this journey, which started in 2023, Alvin has shown courage. From rounds of chemotherapy, a total gastrectomy, bilateral ureteral stents, bilateral nephrostomies, and most recently, a colostomy. He has continued to face each challenge with strength and hope.

Unfortunately, the costs of care are overwhelming. For example, Nivolumab immunotherapy—which is not publicly funded in New Zealand for metastatic gastric cancer—costs over $115,000, of which only part was covered by insurance. On top of this, healthcare-related expenses continue to add up.

The funds raised will help ease some of the financial burden on Alvin and Moneth, allowing them to focus on spending meaningful time together and with their loved ones during the time Alvin has left.