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Support 3 year old Magnus and his family fight his stage four cancer.

  • Latest CT scan - mixed results

      20 December 2025
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    Hi all,

    Past week, Magnus finally had another CT after we pushed for it to be done. He's been a real champion again! He was so brave, not a single tear. Afterwards he ate LOTS of food.

    Results are very mixed. We've already seen his spots on the head growing again and after talking to the radiation oncologist, we know that radiating his full head a month ago has not brought the wished effect. The tumor seems to be resistant to radiation as well. It shrunk briefly for 2 weeks, but is now growing back. Another radiation would potentially bring even less effect. We're having a meeting on Monday about the next steps.

    Right now, we're battling a fever and high heart rates. Despite all that, his spirits are up high. Nothing stops him from pottering around in his garden, even if it's just for 5 minutes.

    Our only wish for Christmas is, that he's going to be healed. That researchers would finally discover the magic bullet - a gentle but powerful treatment to stop cancer growth.

    Lots of love

    Magnus and family.

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  • Early summer update

      8 December 2025
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    Hello everyone,

    We've been enjoying these past two weeks of early summer and it's easy to pretend everything is fine and normal. We've had lots of Playdates, he's a great little gardener, caring for his tomatoes and other plants. He's calling himself "farmer Magnus" and when he prepares a salad in the kitchen he's "Chef Magnus". His Oma is his best buddy in crime. It's very sweet to watch.

    Magnus has recovered a lot of energy and weight. The new drug and radiation to his head show some effect, the eye is moving back into its socket. He's still blind on that side and it might stay that way.

    We're very frustrated with the medical team at the moment. We had asked to schedule radiation to his new spot on the right jaw to prevent what happened before: rapid growth, tumor invading eye socket and causing blindness.

    But he's in palliative care now, they don't want to be proactive, only reactive to ensure "quality of life". We're not sure what they mean by saying that. Last time he lost his sight, he was in excruciating pain for weeks and losing the vision of his other eye would surely not contribute to his quality of life either.

    Magnus has already decorated his Christmas tree and stockings are hanging by the chimney ready for Santa to pay a visit soon.

    We wish you all a lovely pre-Christmas time with sun, beach or snow, wherever you are. Thank you for being part of his journey for so long. You're amazing.

    Arohanui

    Magnus & family

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  • Making memories and navigating the rollercoaster

      23 November 2025
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    We’ve had to make tough decisions lately. A few weeks ago we hit rock bottom. But the last couple of weeks have brought some ups. Fortunately we have family supporting us.

    The tumor is growing fast, with big bumps on his head. Thanks to donations, we managed second opinions and a novel US blood test that took six weeks. It revealed an aggressive new mutation. The good news: there’s an oral drug that targets it. The hard part: it may work, or not, and resistance can appear overnight. We’re watching closely.

    The tumor invaded his eye socket, covering most of it before radiation. He’s blind on the left side. If you saw him move, you’d never know. Children are stronger than adults in so many ways. We’re so proud of him.

    He struggled with headaches, nausea, and emotions. He lost a lot of weight. Now with the new drug we have to slow him down from eating.

    Ten days ago in Christchurch, Magnus mastered another anaesthetic and CT scan and had radiation across most of his head. He was a champ.

    He’s thrilled his Hickman line is gone — no more chemo — and back to playing wildly with water. His big wish was to climb a coconut tree like in Moana, so we flew to the Gold Coast and made memories. If not in bed, he was in the water or exploring. Meanwhile, our Childspace community worked magic in our garden.

    From our hearts, thank you to everyone who donated and/or helped us make these memories. We’re still fighting for him, making life as joyful as we can. Right now, he's doing well.

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  • Come to the movies with us

      14 October 2025
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    Childspace will be hosting a fundraiser movie on the 23rd of November, 7.45pm.

    Please bring your friends along and join us for this, lets have fun and raise some more $$ for everyone.

    If you can share this around your family and friends, or better yet gather all your family and friends together and come out for the night.

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  • Serious setback

      8 September 2025
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    Writing this update crushes our hearts yet again. Friday's scans found 5 new spots, this time in Magnus' skull. The medical team will include the palliative care team from here on as well. Another progression like this isn't very favourable when looking at statistics. This doesn't mean it's all over, we're still continuing to find a cure for Magnus, but options are becoming extremely limited.

    We haven't told Magnus, and won't. For all he knows, the medicine he needs to endure is now "building fun places in his body, like swimming pools and trampolines, to keep all cells happy".

    We're increasing the fundraising goal, as we are reaching the limits of what can be done in New Zealand, and medicines overseas come with a pricetag of around 1 Million NZD + travel and accommodation. Payment is always upfront to be accepted by a clinic. We want to be prepared and be able to move quickly if we need that money. This cancer can be aggressive and turn to turbo from one day to the other.

    Right now we're crossing fingers that the next rounds of chemo+Immunotherapy will clear the new spots that are all around his face and in the jaw. He's already complaining about headaches.

    This raw feeling of agony is something we haven't felt since the days he was diagnosed. 💔 Last night I cuddled my sleeping boy tightly and wished it was without any fear for his life.

    Thanks for your ongoing support. Please share this page with your network.

    Lots of love

    Magnus and family.

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  • Round #4 Immunotherapy completed

      16 August 2025
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    Hello everyone,

    We have just completed round #4 of Immunotherapy and it was one of the best rounds we had so far. Magnus was in an incredibly good mood ❤️, left the bed and even his room, which has never happened before. He raced around the ward with a little red and black car and his monkey family enjoyed hitchhiking on his back. (Mum or dad were running behind with the medicine pole and holding his cables, there's some stuff you see on a children's ward!)

    Back on Wellington now for some well deserved rest for his little body.

    We're extending the time for this page as treatment is still ongoing and we'd like to keep you updated. Every one of you has been amazing throughout our journey.

    Arohanui, lots of love

    Magnus and family

    Ps.: his hair is growing back 🥹

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    • 18/08/2025 by Alana

      Such a little warrior! Amazing news family :)

  • Complete Remission achieved! 🥳

      7 August 2025
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    Hello wonderful people,

    We have officially confirmed amazing news that we want to share.

    The bone marrow biopsy as well as other markers from urine have been completely clear of cancer cells or byproducts!! This is additional to the amazing results of the last imaging scan🥳 We're over the moon and oncologists here have not seen such a stellar result before for salvage therapy. Magnus has achieved a deep complete remission with all the efforts and torturing treatments he has endured. 💪🥳

    Because he was diagnosed high risk at the beginning we still need to complete more treatment, at least 3 more rounds of Immunotherapy are ahead of us and the next month's are important to stay clear.

    But as they say, step by step. Like in the photo, Magnus needs to do the hard work, and we're here to guide him through, always by his side.

    This is an amazing milestone and we couldn't have come so far without all of your help. Energy, prayers and donations have reached him and helped immensely.

    Arohanui, lots of love

    Magnus and family ❤️

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    • 08/08/2025 by Andrew

      Yay! Congratulations to all of you on getting through this journey with so much fortitude and love <3

  • Back in Wellington

      24 July 2025
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    Hi all,

    Thanks for your lovely messages and responses :)

    The Bone Marrow Biopsy went well, he was uncomfortable for 2 days but is now running and jumping again. We will know the results in the next couple of weeks we suspect.

    We flew back to Wellington on Wednesday. Magnus always lights up once he knows we're headed home 🤩

    Will keep you updated with the results 🙏❤️

    Lots of love,

    Magnus and family

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    • 01/08/2025 by Alana

      So wonderful to see you all! 🤍 Lovely news and keeping everyone in my thoughts! Con amor, Alana

  • Mini Doctor

      18 July 2025
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    Hi everyone,

    Today is the last day of the 3rd Immunotherapy round. Because of his amazing response to the first two rounds, chemo could be left aside for this one.

    Lucky us, because this is the round when he caught a Rhino virus. The first real common cold after 8 months of treatment.

    He's feeling a bit poorly but still with enough energy to check if Mum and Dad are healthy. He looks a bit puffed because of all that extra fluid that goes into his little body.

    We will stay on in Christchurch because next Monday he'll have another bone marrow biopsy to see if cancer cells are gone from there as well. Cross fingers for another amazing result (0%) and that we get an early morning slot to keep the nil by mouth to a minimum.

    Lots of love to everyone who reads these updates and keeps supporting us one way or the other 💕

    Magnus and family.

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    • 21/07/2025 by Christine

      Wonderful news - and yes! Fingers tightly crossed for that 0% result...and early morning slot! :) xxxx

    • 22/07/2025 by Alan

      Hoping this text is a positive result. What a brave guy you are Magnus

  • Amazing results from the latest scan

      12 July 2025
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    We're so excited to share these news with you!

    Thanks to the first two cycles of immuno-chemotherapy we managed to reduce the cancer load to a minimum (1/30), at the beginning it was 24/30.

    Or in toddler words: 🥰 our little warrior turned all those "grumpy" cells into laughing harmonic cells! We told him one still got away and is hiding from the tickle police to make them happy again, but he's excited that all his work has paid off so well! And we had a lovely moment of explaining what "happy tears" were. 🥹❤️

    To celebrate he wanted to go for a pony ride. 😍

    We have a meeting with the doctors this coming Monday, to determine next steps and convert that 1 into a 0.

    This is a huge milestone and it has only been possible thanks to all of you and your love and kind support.

    From the bottom of our hearts, thank you so very much ❤️

    Magnus & family

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    • 14/07/2025 by Anne

      Magnus, you are awesome and we are supporting you from way over here in Atlanta Georgia USA. 🥰🤗

  • Assessing Treatment success

      11 July 2025
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    Hello everyone,

    Thanks for hanging in there and the continuous interest in Magnus' journey to heal and overcome this stage of life. 💕

    We're back in Christchurch after some good couple of weeks resting and staying snug and cozy.

    Today Magnus is undergoing another MIBG scan to assess how well the extended phase of treatment is going. We're envisioning clear results! 🙏☀️

    Thank you so much again for being part of our journey.

    Arohanui

    Magnus & family

    Ps.: photo of the amazing new playroom at the Ronald McDonald house in Christchurch. This initiative and everyone who works and volunteers here is just amazing and makes our lives so much brighter when we're in Christchurch. Thank you team! ☺️

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  • Round #2 after two resting weeks

      17 June 2025
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    We've had one lovely week with good recovery, high spirits and a big appetite. He has recovered some weight again! From 13.8 up to 15kg, just before the next round starts.💪

    We also had fun riding the bike, watching Puffin Rock, and playing fun games from train tracks to zoo keeper indoors when weather was a bit cold and wet.

    Now we're in Christchurch again and the second round has started. He will be inpatient with 24/7 drugs infusion until Saturday morning. This second round is supposed to be easier.🔥🤞

    Thanks for all your love, prayers and donations, and a special thanks to our ongoing supporters and repeat donors ❤️

    Lots of love,

    Magnus & whanau (family)

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  • Toughest week so far

      3 June 2025
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    This past week in Christchurch was one of the (if not THE) toughest week we've had so far. Magnus struggled a lot with pain the first 2 days until we found the right morphine dose. Then came the high fever, a side effect of the drug, followed by nausea. He also developed a very itchy skin rash. And then his persistent diarrhoea took it up to a whole new level... We were awake every hour the past three nights, running between bathroom and bed...

    It was, and is, very intense, and emotionally draining. Especially now that we have a newborn at the same time that also needs our care and love. We couldn't have done it without Diana's mum who was an immense support and helped a lot with Aurora. 💞 We're also so happy to have the Ronald McDonald team care for us in such a lovely way whenever we're in Christchurch.

    Despite all the things he's going through, Magnus makes sure Aurora is doing well, giving her cuddles, watching her pram and singing softly when she's crying 💖 he's such an amazing little human being.

    Now we have the next two weeks to recover his weight again, get the diarrhoea under some control, and hopefully have some fun times before we start the next cycle.

    Thanks to everyone who sent us messages of support, it takes us a while to respond, but we really appreciate it, and it charges our energy.

    Lots of love

    Magnus and family.

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  • Start of Chemo-immunotherapy

      27 May 2025
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    Hi all,

    We are back in Christchurch and yesterday Magnus has received two new chemo drugs that he will be given the next 4 days. Additionally, today is the start of the Dinutuximab, an extremely painful medicine that attacks nerve pain receptors alongside tumor cells.

    This is considered one of his best chances of achieving complete remission after the induction therapy didn't bring the results that were needed.

    We hope we get the pain management right quickly. 🙏

    We will keep you updated.

    Arohanui, lots of love

    Magnus & family

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    • 27/05/2025 by Alan

      Thinking of you Magnus sending good lucks and wishes! - Alan

  • Additional treatment needed

      16 May 2025
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    Hi all,

    Last week Magnus and Mario flew to Christchurch for 2 days to have the nuclear full body scan to see how the 5 rounds of chemo therapy have affected the cancer.

    We have all hoped for complete remission but it has only reduced the cancer load by half, with lots of persisting sites in the bones. His prognosis has thus changed.

    This means an extra intense 6 rounds (probably 4-6 more months) of Chemo-immunotherapy for Magnus, additional to standard treatment.

    The routine hearing test has also shown a drop in his hearing range, unfortunately.

    We needed some days to process the news before sharing it.

    On the upside, Magnus is currently doing super well (persisting diarrhoea aside) and has lots of energy at the moment so we're enjoying the days before the next treatment rounds are starting.

    Thank you again from our hearts for all the amazing support you have provided so far.

    Arohanui,

    Magnus, Aurora, Diana and Mario

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    • 16/05/2025 by New

      Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, especially Magnus, what a little warrior 🥰

  • Magnus is a big brother!

      2 May 2025
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    Hello everyone,

    We hope everyone living in New Zealand is safe and well during this extreme weather.

    We were supposed to fly to Christchurch yesterday for the assessment scan, but the storm crossed our plans. 🫠 Fortunately the team in Christchurch was able to reschedule it for next week.

    We're super happy to announce that Magnus is a big brother now. His little sister Aurora was born over Easter. It's the best thing in the world, to see how he dotes over her! 😍 He's so helpful and loving, assisting with dressing her and nappy changes and it's so cute how he wants to hold her the moment he opens his eyes.

    We still have to manage health challenges that Magnus is facing since his operation, including persistent diarrhoea and malabsorption of nutrients which means he can't gain weight back. After 8 weeks we feel we are finally getting on track to getting some answers.

    Life as a family of 4 is beautiful and chaotic. We are in the process of finding our new routine with our lovely baby girl and need to figure out how we can navigate logistics around appointments, treatments and travel going forward. We're very fortunate to have some family support around at the moment. ☺️

    Thanks so much for your continuous support and contribution in any shape and form. Your messages fill our hearts every time. 💕

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    • 03/05/2025 by Yves

      Hi guys, nice to see your family of 4, great time, Magnus seems very happy with Aurora coming along, hasta luego y abrazos Yves

  • Chemo cycle #5

      29 March 2025
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    We're back in Christchurch only 3 weeks after his surgery and have started cycle 5. All is going well so far, except some treatment related nausea and lingering digestive problems but Magnus is in good spirits.

    After this round, there will be a whole series of diagnostic testing to determine how response to treatment has been so far.

    Please cross your fingers, send your positive energy and prayers, and manifest that Magnus will have a very favourable prognosis going forward ❤️ 🙏

    Also, he's very close to becoming a big brother! He's very excited and already sorting baby cloths, checking that nappies are stocked, thinking of presents and considering how he will take the little one grocery shopping 😀🥰

    Thanks again for all your amazing support.

    Arohanui, lots of love xx

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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  • Recovery

      17 March 2025
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    We're super happy to report that 10 days after his big 12 hours surgery, Magnus is recovering really well. From the start he has surprised surgeons and oncologists, especially with his persistent asking for food from day 1. We took a slow approach and he was up on his legs on day 6, taking his first wobbly steps and from there it was only a matter of time to be discharged and sent home. 😊🎉 He's such a resilient little guy! ❤️ We're extremely proud of him.

    He is still struggling with indigestion but that's to be expected and hopefully normalising soon so he can get that extra kilogram back before Chemo Round #5.

    Arohanui and thank you all for your continuous support and checking in!

    Magnus, Diana & Mario

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  • 12 hours Surgery - huge success!

      7 March 2025
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    He did it!! The amazing team at Christchurch hospital was performing surgery on him from 8:30am in the morning until 8:09 pm. They believe they have achieved a complete resection of the tumor and have preserved all organs and blood vessels during this marathon! From surgeons, to Anesthesist to nurses, and to everyone who was involved in this major operation, we are so deeply grateful for this amazing outcome and excellent work. ☘️❤️🥹

    Magnus is doing great, as well as can be after such a massive surgery. First words were "I want to leave the hospital" and then our night time was filled with all sorts of food items mentioned, because this little guy wanted to go straight back to eating. But we need to take it very slowly as his body is just recovering.

    Photo of us when we received the call that surgery was over and he's being transferred to the recovery area.

    Thanks for all your amazing support!

    Big hugs

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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    • 07/03/2025 by Shweta

      So happy to hear this wonderful news! Magnus fought bravely, and you all did an amazing job!

  • Day of Surgery

      5 March 2025
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    Tomorrow (Thursday) is going to be a big day for Magnus. Surgery will take place to remove the main tumor. He's recovered very nicely from the last chemo round and we have spent some great time together, enjoyed NZ summer, celebrated his birthday and had lots of little adventures and heaps of food since his appetite came back. He's going into this in a very good shape.

    The preparation will start at 7:15am and once he's under anaesthetics, the 6 hours operation (or more) will take place here in Christchurch.

    Please send some good energy Magnus' way 🙏☘️

    Arohanui, lots of love

    Diana and Mario

    Ps.: the photo shows him with his beads of courage that he has received for treatment so far. Each bead symbolises a procedure, blood test, infusion, scan, etc. he has already reached the 100 beads club!

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  • Happy 3. birthday to our little warrior!

      26 February 2025
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    Happy birthday to our little champion, we’d give you the world because you deserve it. 🥳🎂 We're in awe of how well you have handled this intense treatment so far.

    After a three day hospital stay because of fever, we were able to celebrate Magnus' 3rd birthday with his granddad, lots of balloons, yummy cake, Bluey decoration and lots of outdoors fun with amazing weather!

    Also sharing that the latest CT scanner shows 50% reduction of the main tumour’s volume. This is great news before the next step, which is surgery.

    Lots of love

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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  • Round #4 and some encouraging news

      11 February 2025
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    Today we have finished our two-day, but very intense, chemo round #4. Our little warrior was amazing, plugged to the machine for 48 hours nonstop. His appetite has dropped significantly, but grapes are an all time favourite and an interesting craving for fried Kumara emerged this round.

    The week isn't over yet, we will have tomorrow 'free', and some other tests coming up on Thursday and Friday.

    Now the encouraging news: We have received the report of the ultrasound we did last week and it seems the tumor has not progressed and maybe even shrunk a bit! It's hard to tell from ultrasound images but we take this as a win🙏 💪

    Our deepest gratitude to all our existing and new supporters!

    Arohanui, lots of love

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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  • World Cancer Day

      5 February 2025
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    Today is world cancer day, and I almost missed it. Our little world has certainly been consumed by Magnus' cancer every single day since his diagnosis.

    It's hard not to think about it, when I look at him playing happily at a playground or running around wild in the house. Every conversation that Mario and I have, is mostly around this topic. From "when is the next blood test" to new research papers and the conversations we had with specialists, survival chances, best treatment options etc.

    Many things are up in the air and depend on how the tumor will react to this induction chemotherapy. This cancer beast is known to be adaptable, and for its ability to be chemo resistant. All we can do is wait and see for now and help Magnus through this treatment, round by round.

    Everyone who has donated so far, or helped us in other ways, with lovely words, a little gift for Magnus, a yummy meal or even mowed the lawns for us, be sure that we see and feel every little action and that it makes the world of a difference. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

    Arohanui

    Diana, Magnus and Mario

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  • Use of funds & Chemo Round 3

      21 January 2025
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    Hello from Christchurch everyone.

    We have started Chemo Round #3 with some pretty tough drugs and the added challenge of Magnus being plugged to the machine 24/7 for 4 days. No chance to even go outside for 15 mins to breathe some fresh air. This, and some nausea from the chemo, are pretty tough on our little one. Fortunately we can keep him distracted, and he really likes the playroom they have on the ward.

    Day #1&2 are done, 2 more to go!

    We also have an update on the usage of funds, now that we have more clarity of what's involved, latest research, different approaches worldwide, and what is and isn't available in New Zealand. We will use the funds for:

    Surgery by a neuroblastoma expert - March 2025

    Protontherapy - ?/2025

    Naxitamab medication - ?/2025

    The timing is something that varies and depends hugely on how treatment progresses and how Magnus responds to this induction therapy, hence there are still lots of question marks.

    Thank you so very much again for your continued support, and interest into Magnus' journey. We do believe in prayers/positive vibes/energy and appreciate every single one coming his ways. ❤️‍🩹

    Please keep spreading the word so we can reach our funding goal by the time we need the funds.

    Arohanui and big hugs

    Magnus, Mario and Diana

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  • Finishing Cycle #2

      11 January 2025
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    Hello from Wellington to all our amazing supporters.

    In the last update we were half way through Chemo Round 2 in Christchurch, which, overall, went as well as it could. Magnus had a bit more nausea than before and on day 4 and 5 he was desperate to leave and did not want the chemo connected to him.

    They sent us home on day 6 after chemo start and we've enjoyed some nice home time with a very happy child, and really bad weather.

    Then came the sunny days on Thursday and Friday but as life sometimes goes, these were unexpectedly spent in Wellington hospital, starting with rushing to ED at 4am with Magnus having a fever of 39 degrees.

    The child cancer protocol plays on the very safe side in case it's caused by bacteria and they kept us three days until today. Blood tests, transfusions, and IV antibiotics every 6 hours as a precaution were on the program. Suffice to say we're all very relieved that they discharged us today midday!

    Next visit on Tuesday for a dressing change and blood test.

    We still have a very long journey ahead of us and a long way to go to reach the funds we need to be able to have choices and options for better treatments and technology. Thank you so very much for being on the journey with us so far. Please keep spreading the word so Magnus can receive the best care for this beast. ❤️‍🩹

    Lots of love

    Arohanui

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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  • Happy New Year, New round of chemo

      1 January 2025
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    We want to wish everyone who has supported us so far on this journey a very Happy New Year 2025! May it bring every one of you, joy, health and love.

    Since Monday, we have visited the hospital daily for 4 hours. Chemo round # 2 has started. And Magnus seems to have embraced this rocky road.

    The three days back home have worked wonders, he walked all the way from Ronald McDonald House to hospital, and not one single tear dropped. Of course he's not excited to go there (who would be?) and he lets us know, but he seems to accept it and even waves at or chats with the nurses. They all said he's like a different child.

    I am surprised on a daily basis how brave and resilient our little boy is. He's facing some exams and tests on his own now, (not sitting on mamas lap) because he has decided he's a big boy. 🥹

    Day 3 of 5 of chemo are done and if he continues to be in such good shape as he is now, we might be able to fly back home this weekend to recover before round #3 starts. ✈️ 💪

    Have a great first day of 2025 and our deepest thanks to everyone who has contributed to his journey in any shape or form.

    Arohanui, lots of love

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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  • Home stay holiday

      28 December 2024
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    We hope everyone had a lovely Christmas break. :)

    We certainly did. This break was amazing and Magnus' eyes lit up when we reached home. He inspected everything, from Garage to garden to indoors and then had a spiritful dance in our backyard - full of joy and happiness. He's doing so well, he's eating 2 adult portions at dinners and is in general super energetic ❤️

    We also received lovely visits from his teachers from daycare who spoiled us with food and goodies so we didn't need to think about cooking or shopping 🙏 Taking this off our plates was so considerate and lovely. Thank you so much Ali, Nidal, Vivi and Debbie 🤗 Magnus (and we) loves your food.

    Some of his little friends came over and he was so excited to see them all and spend time with them.

    We also used the time to do lots of nature walks and some foraging and berry picking. He loves those activities very much. This little guy can't get enough blueberries.

    Welly hospital received a visit from us on Friday for a blood test and he was an absolute pro! 💪 Bloods start looking good as well. His little body is finally recovering from chemo and stem cell collection.

    Tomorrow we fly back to Christchurch and the 2nd round of Chemo is supposed to start on Monday.

    Have a great rest of your end-of-year break ☺️

    Lots of love

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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  • Merry Christmas and a heartfelt thank you!

      25 December 2024
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    We wish everyone a lovely Christmas time and wanted to take the opportunity to express our deepest thanks to everyone who has and is supporting us through all of this in any shape or form! We appreciate you and your help so very much.

    We are home for three days, Magnus' biggest wish came true! ☺️🥹

    Watch until the end, our little warrior has a special message for you 💕

    Lots of love

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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    • 27/12/2024 by Bernardo

      Vamos vamos Magnus!!!

  • Stem cell harvest succesful

      23 December 2024
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    All went well today! It was a monster session that began yesterday with a 3 hours blood transfusion, overnight IV fluids and ended 6pm today - with 6 hours of stem cell harvest, and with 4-6 people always in the room.

    Magnus is doing well, although exhausted and very sensitive. Bluey, and Maulwurf episodes helped a lot to keep him entertained but we also needed to go for the option of sedating him slightly as he would have been very upset sitting still for 6 hrs when all he wanted was "leave the hospital, take a taxi and fly home" (his own words).

    The good news is, we don't need to repeat the session!! They got all the stem cells they wanted 🥳

    The even better news is, we might be able to go home for 3 full days before the next round starts ❤️ his biggest wish on the Santa wish list... "I want my home".

    It looks like the Christmas spirit and all those positive thoughts and prayers from everyone are reaching us ☺️

    Can't wait to see his little face when we tell him the good news!

    Merry Christmas everyone! We wish you all the best from the depths of our hearts. 🎄 🎁

    Arohanui Xxx

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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  • Visible side effects are starting

      21 December 2024
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    We had some rocky temperatures these past 3 days. Never too high to needing to rush to hospital but enough to keep us awake at nights to check. Fortunately this has settled yesterday and he's super happy again.

    But this morning he came to the bed saying "Mama look, I pulled my hair", with a fist full of hair in his hands. Diana softly touched and pulled and a little blond lock stayed behind in her hand. Suffice to say that it was a very upsetting moment with some maternal tears rolling silently and hidden... We knew it might very likely happen. We're just hoping and wishing that this will be the only side effect from that long list.

    His beads of courage have arrived with his name and a Pounamu (special to NZ). He will get 50+ more already for all the treatments and pokes and interventions he's already had in these past 2 months.

    Please keep up those prayers, wishes, positive thoughts. It's comforting to know he's loved and thought of by many.

    Arohanui

    Magnus, Diana & Mario

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  • Day full of tests

      18 December 2024
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    Hello everyone,

    After some days of relaxation and recovery, today was a day packed full with appointments.

    Start at 8:30 am with a first general blood test and injection for a kidney test. His bloods are officially very low, which is to be expected at this point.

    Three more blood tests were done over the course of 6 hours and in between Magnus had a hearing test (excellent hearing, but we knew that already, no conversation goes unnoticed by this toddler!) and a dentist visit (also all clear). He was nervous and still dislikes his Hickman line being accessed, but seems to settle into the hospital routine a bit better. What a trooper!

    We had a lovely visit from his dear friend Pia from Wellington and her mum who spent some time with us after the dentist. He was so happy, he hugged her tight and didn't want to let go. 💕

    Then came the dressing change for his Hickman line which was a real challenge for him, but afterwards he said "it was ok this time Mama". 🥹

    Some smaller appointments during the next days and on Sunday doctors expect there will be a need for a blood transfusion again.

    On Monday 23rd Dec the stem cell harvest is planned. Four hours attached to a blood filtering machine.

    To finish with a lovely memory, Santa came to visit Ronald McDonald house today and brought lovely gifts! There was a magician too to lift the children's spirits. What an amazing evening!

    Arohanui and thank you to everyone who is supporting us through this! 💖

    Magnus, Diana & Mario

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  • First week of Chemo - done!

      13 December 2024
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    The first week of chemo is over, and it was tough. Seeing his resignation when he realizes begging and crying won't get him out of the hospital and he will be connected to the chemo, breaks our hearts every single time.

    As soon as he realizes we can leave, his spirit lights up again, and he can't get out fast enough. His leg has improved a lot too, which is great.

    We made a huge effort to be out of the hospital as much as we could, escaping to feed ducks or eels, enjoying the playground, or just having a fluffy, contributed to really lovely moments and some laughter.

    Magnus needed a blood transfusion today because his numbers had dropped significantly due to chemo, and we spent 3 hours more on the ward than expected. We look forward to spending an almost hospital-free weekend and hope his body will recover quickly from this week's treatment, before the stem cell harvest and the next round of chemo.

    Tomorrow he'll receive a line under the skin through which we need to inject a liquid to mobilise his stem cells over the next 7-10 days. Coming Wednesday will be huge with baseline hearing test and baseline kidney test to be able to compare numbers to after chemo is over and see if anything was damaged during treatment. Also having a dentist check to make sure there's no infection potential. ...And change of dressing.... We're dreading that moment.

    Our deepest thanks for your generosity and love.

    Magnus, Diana & Mario

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  • Little warrior

      10 December 2024
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    The first administration of chemo was a very emotional moment for all of us. It feels so wrong, thinking to make him sick so he’ll get better goes against every instinct. But the first two days went as well as they could. So far, he tolerates the drugs well. I strongly believe that’s because of all the amazing positive vibes, thoughts, and prayers coming his way, so please keep those up! 🙏

    He’s not amused by treatment procedures, hates coming to the hospital, and being attached to the machine. After they clip him in he breaks down and screams, “I don’t want the medicine, Mama!!” We totally get his anger, sadness, and frustration and are glad he expresses them openly. And to be honest, we’d like to scream with him.

    He's a champion! Tonight he took off his own shirt and didn’t cry seeing the Hickman line. He let us wipe his tummy with a wet cloth briefly before getting nervous. Huge win! 🌈

    His right leg is extremely painful, and since Sunday, he doesn’t want to walk at all. We’re working on finding the cause.

    Thank you for all the generosity and creativity towards him: 💕

    Our daycare recorded some lovely song videos for him to sing along.

    Be sure to get a ticket to the fundraiser movie night on the 12th that Hannah, Chloe & team are organising in Welly.

    Andrew continues to support us with heartfelt videos.

    We’re constantly amazed by all the kindness and love from family, friends, neighbors, and even people we haven’t met. ❤️

    Arohanui, Magnus, Diana & Mario

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  • First quemo therapy session

      9 December 2024
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    Magnus has had his first quemo therapy session today. A 3 hrs round connected to a machine pumping drugs and fluids into his little body…he endured like a little warrior, but wanted to get out of the hospital and away from doctors and nurses as fast as possible. We will spend the night here but now we are out and about feeding the ducks.

    We’ll be forever grateful for all the support and donations we’ve received so far.

    Please continue sharing our story as much as you can so we can keep raising funds for Magnus’ upcoming treatment.

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  • Recovering and collecting energy for Chemo on Monday

      8 December 2024
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    Dear lovely people,

    This weekend, including Friday, we focussed on Magnus' mental recovery. The Hickman line is a huge thing for him but today he managed to take deep breaths, close his eyes and allow us to undress and dress him without a single tear dropping. Mario has had a fake Hickman line placed on his chest too so Magnus can familiarise himself with it a bit more on a body that's not his.

    Friday we've spent 4 amazing hours at the Willowbanks park with great weather and so many lovely animals. The piggies were his absolute favourite! Two were put on a diet and he's still telling us about that.

    Sunday we maximised our annual pass for Tram and Gondola and had 4 or 5 return trips up the hill with the Gondola. Thank you all so much for making this happen with your contributions! ❤️🙏 Those fun experiences increase his happiness which helps his healing enormously.

    Today we're off to "pick your own Cherries", his absolute favourite fruit at the moment.

    I don't want to really write it, it fills me with anxiety and makes it even more real, and I wish we would just wake up Monday and discover it was all a terrible nightmare.

    Tomorrow is the start of the Chemotherapy treatment. Please send all your positive thoughts and energy for the next week, crossing fingers, sending prayers and wish for him to tolerate it wonderfully 🌈🙏❤️‍🩹

    Arohanui, thanks for being part of this difficult journey!

    Lots of love

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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  • Some amazing things up for auction

      7 December 2024

    https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/search?member_listing=863510

    We are so grateful to everyone for the support that has been pouring in for Magnus as he starts his journey. I know that he is in the thoughts and prayers of more people than we will ever know and that is amazing.

    We have been been putting together an amazing fundraiser action over the last few weeks and have finally got some listed please take a look there are some real treats to be won. This weeks listing include a signed black caps jersey, Boomrock lunch for two, sky stadium membership and so much more! There will be more auctions put up over the coming weeks as well.

    https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/search?member_listing=863510

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  • Hickman line insertion successful

      5 December 2024
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    Letting everyone know that Magnus has been through the Hickman line insertion, which will allow to put meds in during quemo therapy, take blood samples, perform transfusions if needed, amongst other things.

    This line sets the beginning of the marathon we’re embarking on, and will change his and our lives.

    Crossing fingers so he’s not too upset when he realises the line is there.

    Thank you again to everyone who has been supporting us in any way. Please keep doing it and share this page as much as you can.

    Sending love to all!

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  • Some good news

      4 December 2024

    Yesterday we received the results of Magnus' MIBG scan. And there are no new nasty surprises! His main tumor grew in the past month (approx. 1 cm) but other than the bone marrow involvement, about which we were aware already, there were no other metastases visible. We take that as a tiny win!

    Diana also had her 20 weeks anatomy scan and we're happy to report that all is well with Magnus' little sibling to be - size is bigger than average. To connect with Magnus' experiences before big tests, Diana pretended to be nervous about the scan and asked Magnus what might help her and he said "Mama, deep breaths and take my hand, I'm here for you" 🥹❤️

    He also took it very bravely when we told him that today they want to do another blood test, it will hurt a bit but he can choose if he wanted it taken from his arm, hand or thumb. He decided for the thumb and declared to firmly tell the doctors "not from the arm!" Our little warrior!

    We just had the cardiac ultrasound and he was a champ!! He did so well. Even gave the technician a high five. 💪

    Tomorrow morning is the Hickman line operation. Unfortunately we're on the acute list again (means delays can happen) but hope he doesn't need to go without food for more than 12 hours yet again! Wish us luck 🤞 🍀

    We've seen the new comments and donations from the past days and can't thank you enough for your support! 💗🙏

    Arohanui, lots of love

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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    • 04/12/2024 by Alan

      Lots of love and good lucks! Magnus you are doing great and even got to see the rescue helicopters!

  • Recharging energies - thank you Hannah & Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue team

      2 December 2024
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    To balance out the past week, this weekend was full of laughter, fun and relaxation.

    Magnus' energy was back up high thanks to the blood transfusion and Saturday was dedicated to strolling around with the grandparents (who have supported us enormously so far), taking the tram and discovering the markets.

    Then came adventure Sunday! A heartfelt thank you to Hannah (Mama to Magnus' twin friends at Childspace), Westpac, and Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue team (Cameron, Wayne, Tom and the rest of the lovely team) for making it possible for Magnus to have a "playdate" with the rescue helicopters. He won't stop talking about it and loves his toy helicopter! It's bringing many injured and sick little figurines to the hospital. 😃 After our close up walk around, he saw 3 helicopters in action!

    The day was lovely so we let it play out at the beach. 🌞

    This week will be a big one again, with an ultrasound to his heart to confirm it'll be healthy enough to receive all the toxic medicine going forward, as well as the placement of the Hickman line into his chest. All these appointments still need to be confirmed.

    We have privately organised a child therapy specialist who will use some play, stories and techniques to help him regain some sense of power over his body and to hopefully help him feel less anxious about upcoming procedures.

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  • Update from Christchurch

      30 November 2024
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    Your messages give us strength and hope. Thank you so much for being part of his journey!

    It’s been a rough week. Last Saturday, Magnus developed a high fever and had to spend 2 days in Wellington hospital. Thankfully, he recovered quickly.

    On Tuesday we flew to Christchurch. Magnus was thrilled about staying at Ronald McDonald House; he adores the trampoline and big kitchen. However, hospital visits have been tough. He gets very upset about procedures, blood tests, and anaesthetic masks.

    On Thursday, Magnus cried so hard before sedation that his nose bled. He had to fast from 9:30am to 4:30 pm. The team successfully inserted the IV line. The wait while he was sedated was hard. The MIBG scan team injected a radioactive substance to highlight any tumor cells during the scan on Friday, and Diana had to stay 2 meters away from Magnus for 48 hours to protect the unborn baby, which was very upsetting. When he woke up around 6:30pm, he immediately asked for food.

    Friday’s big test made Magnus very nervous. We walked around the botanical gardens to distract him. He had to fast from 7am until 1pm. The MIBG scan lasted over 2 hours. When he woke up around 3pm he asked for cherries and ate until late at night. That wasn’t the end of his day. Blood tests showed low platelets and hemoglobin, requiring a blood transfusion, which took 5 hours. We finally returned to the Ronald McDonald House around 10pm.

    We hope for a relaxed weekend without tricky surprises to catch our breath again.

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  • An note of thanks from Diana

      25 November 2024

    We want to express our deepest gratitude to all the lovely people who care so much for our little son. We are overwhelmed from all the outpour of love, kindness and encouragement that we have received in the past 5 days from family, friends, our community and people we haven't met. We're reading through all the comments and they bring us to tears of hope and gratitude. All the energy, prayers, love, best wishes and contributions that you send him will make a huge difference.

    This page was set up by our lovely daycare, and "give-a-little" only allows one admin per page so please forgive us that we can't respond to each of your messages individually.

    We will keep you updated through posts here to let you know how he is coping.

    Arohanui, lots of love

    Magnus, Diana and Mario

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