Supporting Dad through his Cancer Journey and helping him achieve and maintain a better quality of life.

Our family is reaching out for support for our Dad, Sam Ripia, who is currently battling cancer. Dad has spent his life caring for and helping others, especially through his mahi. Helping people isn’t simply what Dad did for work, it is who he is. He has always given his time, knowledge and energy freely.

Unfortunately, cancer has changed many parts of Dad’s life. As his illness has progressed, he has lost significant strength and had to step back from the mahi he dedicated his life to. This has brought financial challenges for our whānau, alongside the costs of his treatment.

Dad has recently begun non-funded Lutetium treatment. He has received his first treatment, with up to six planned. Each treatment costs approximately $18,000, with a potential full course costing around $108,000, before travel, accommodation and other expenses.

The treatment is being undertaken in the hope of slowing his cancer and helping him maintain his quality of life. We are not expecting to raise the full cost of treatment through this page. We are simply asking for support to ease some of the financial pressure surrounding Dad’s illness.

Dad has always been the person people could turn to when they needed help. He has given so much to others without expecting anything in return. Now, we hope we can come together and help him.

Any contribution would make a genuine difference to Dad and our whānau, allowing him to focus on his treatment, health and making the most of the time ahead.