Support for Drew’s Cancer Fight

$27,670 donated
Given by 168 generous donors in 21 days

A man who has helped so many people, now needs our help as he faces a tough journey through metastatic pancreatic cancer.

New Plymouth, Taranaki

For years as a Clinical Psychologist, Drew has been a guiding light for those struggling with mental health challenges. He has sat across from people in their darkest moments, helping them find hope when they thought all was lost. He has given his time, his care, and his expertise to help countless individuals and families navigate life’s hardest battles. Now, he is facing his own.

In September 2024, Drew was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer which was followed by a major procedure known as the Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy) in November 2024. He commenced chemotherapy in January 2025 and has endured a gruelling four rounds out of twelve, but devastatingly, the treatment has not worked. His tumours have grown, and new ones have appeared. His best—and only—option now is private treatment (gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel) in Palmerston North, which is not publicly funded and costs $4,000 per cycle.

With his partner of 20 years Nicola, and two daughters, aged 13 and 11, he is now fighting for every moment he can have with them. He has spent his career lifting others up—now it’s our turn to support him.

Cara Humphries Stonnell's involvement (page creator)

A friend of the family.

Use of funds

Funds will go directly towards covering the cost of his private treatment (gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel) and the travel expenses for weekly trips to Palmerston North. Your support will give him access to the care he needs and help ease the burden during this incredibly difficult time.

Latest update

Update  12 March 2025

Drew had his first round of gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel on 11 March, the next is round is scheduled for 18 March. After this, he will have a one week break and then repeat the treatment.

He will do weekly blood tests to see if the treatment to working.

Thanks to each and one of you who donated. Drew and his family are extremely overwhelmed by your support and generosity. It is very humbling and much appreciated.

Share this update

View and comment

Latest donations

Annemarie
Annemarie 1 day ago
Private
Cara Humphries Stonnell

A message from Drew - I am so grateful for your support and generosity. Your kindness means the world to us, and I truly appreciate your help as we navigate this journey. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Cara Humphries Stonnell
Guest Donor
Guest Donor 4 days ago
Private
Cara Humphries Stonnell

A message from Drew - I am so grateful for your support and generosity. Your kindness means the world to us, and I truly appreciate your help as we navigate this journey. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Cara Humphries Stonnell
Ivan & Marie
Ivan & Marie on 17 Mar 2025
Best wishes Andrew
Private
Cara Humphries Stonnell

A message from Drew - I am so grateful for your support and generosity. Your kindness means the world to us, and I truly appreciate your help as we navigate this journey. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Cara Humphries Stonnell
Clare
Clare on 15 Mar 2025
$50
Cara Humphries Stonnell

A message from Drew - I am so grateful for your support and generosity. Your kindness means the world to us, and I truly appreciate your help as we navigate this journey. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Cara Humphries Stonnell
Kim
Kim on 15 Mar 2025
$50
Cara Humphries Stonnell

A message from Drew - I am so grateful for your support and generosity. Your kindness means the world to us, and I truly appreciate your help as we navigate this journey. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Cara Humphries Stonnell

Who's involved?

Cara Humphries Stonnell's avatar
Created by Cara Humphries Stonnell
Andrew (Drew) Hignett's avatar
Paying to a verified bank account of Andrew (Drew) Hignett
Page Moderated
The page has been checked by our team to make sure it complies with our terms and conditions.

Help Fundraise

You can create your own page to help fundraise for this cause.

Any concerns?

Report this page
This campaign started on 2 Mar 2025 and ends on 30 Apr 2025.