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.
Update on Finley 17 June 2026
Thank you everyone who has donated to our cause. Finley is going well. He is three months disease-free and we are now focused on supporting him as he continues to recover from his cancer treatment. He is still non-verbal and this is a major focus now for our family.
I (Gus) am trying to find work that allows me to balance providing for our family while remaining present for the intensive support Finley needs right now.
Navigating the aftermath of cancer treatment is a different kind of challenge, but seeing our little boy disease-free makes every step worth it. Our main focus daily is wrap-around care for Finley, working on his communication milestone challenges, and ensuring our whole whānau can heal together after such a turbulent time.
Your generosity has already given us a massive lifeline, allowing us to focus on what matters most—Finley's health and recovery. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for continuing to stand by us, sharing our updates, and keeping Finley in your thoughts. We will keep you all posted on his progress.
Ngā mihi nui,
Gus, Carley, and family
Thank you for your generous donation Jason
Thank you for your donation Emma. We really appreciate it.
Thank you for your generous donation Lauren, we all really appreciate it.
Thank you for your incredible donation. Our family really appreciates it. Much love from us.
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