This will be a long journey so we have set this up to somehow help lessen the load and financial stress. Anything will be appreciated ❤️
Silverdale, Auckland
Earlier this year we received the devastating news that our beautiful boy Finley – known to us as Rah – has bilateral Wilms’ tumour, a rare kidney cancer affecting both kidneys. A 15cm tumour was found on his right kidney and a smaller one on his left. Within hours we were at Starship Hospital.
Finley has endured surgery for a Port-a-Cath, NG tube, and later a major operation to save as much kidney function as possible. Genetic testing revealed loss of heterozygosity (LOH), meaning his cancer is more aggressive and requires stronger chemotherapy alongside radiation.
Through it all, Finley continues to amaze us. He doesn’t speak yet, but his cheeky grin, sparkling eyes, and bravery light up every room.
In the midst of this journey, our family also faced the heartbreak of saying goodbye to our precious baby boy Bailey, who was born sleeping. Grieving while caring for a child with cancer has been almost unbearable, yet we carry him with us every day.
Life has thrown us so much at once: childhood cancer, the devastating loss of Bailey, long hospital stays, and endless unknowns. Your support — whether through donations, sharing, or simply keeping us in your thoughts — helps us keep going.
Thank you for standing beside Finley and our whānau
We are the BestStart community that surround Finley and his Whānau.
The funds will be spent on funds covering Whanau's loss of wages, travel costs, food, and accommodation.
Remission, Gratitude, and New Challenges 6 April 2026
Hi everyone,
We wanted to share a small update with you all. Finny is now in remission, which is something we are incredibly grateful for. We are currently waiting for his three-month follow-up and continuing to take things one step at a time.
The past year has been very hard for our family. Alongside losing our baby, Finley’s diagnosis and treatment took a significant emotional and physical toll. Your support during that time meant more than we can properly express.
At the moment, we are facing some new uncertainty. I (Gus) am undergoing further investigation, as there is a possibility of sarcoma. I have had a full-body MRI which has identified new growths in my spine, leg, and sciatic nerve, as well as an enlarged spleen. I am scheduled for surgery in the coming weeks, and we are waiting for clearer answers.
We are holding onto hope and taking each day as it comes. Thank you again for standing beside our family—we truly couldn’t have made it this far without you.
With gratitude,
Gus and family
Thank you Pauline for your donation, it is really appreciated. Gus
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