Turning Time Into Memories for Mel
Helping Mel turn precious time into memories by ticking off her bucket list with love and support
Taupo, Waikato
At just 24 years old, Mel was recently diagnosed with stage 3 astrocytoma (brain cancer). Just before Christmas, she underwent major brain surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible.
This type of cancer attacks the central nervous system, and as a result Mel now faces limited mobility and seizures, changing her day-to-day life in ways no young person should have to endure.
At this stage, there is no cure for Mel’s cancer. Treatment is focused on slowing its progression, managing symptoms, and giving her as much quality time and comfort as possible, making every moment even more precious.
In between hospital appointments and ongoing treatments, Mel has a bucket list of things she hopes to experience while she still can, and we’re doing everything we can to help make those moments happen.
We’re asking for a little help to support Mel in ticking off some of these wishes — whether through experiences, opportunities, or easing the financial burden so the focus can stay on making memories.
Thank you for taking the time to read Mel’s story and for any support you’re able to give. Your kindness is helping create moments of joy during an incredibly difficult time. 🤍
Christine Thorburn's involvement (page creator)
I'm Melanie's eldest sister
Use of funds
Funds raised will help Mel experience special bucket list moments between treatments, while easing the costs that make these memories possible
Latest update
Update on Mel 💛 13 March 2026
We wish this wasn’t an update we had to share.
Over the past little while Mel’s illness has begun progressing much faster, and she is now receiving end-of-life care. As a family we are coming to terms with the heartbreaking reality that our time with her is very limited.
Right now our focus is on keeping Mel comfortable, holding her close, and making the most of every moment we still have together. The time we have left with her is incredibly precious.
Because things are changing so quickly, the window to help Mel tick off some of the wishes on her bucket list and create a few more special memories is very small. We are doing everything we can to fill the days she has left with love, comfort, and moments that truly matter.
We are so incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported Mel through this page. Your kindness and generosity has given her moments of happiness and peace during the hardest chapter of her life.
Any continued support will help us make the most of the little time we have left with Mel. If there are funds remaining, they will go toward helping our family cover the costs of saying goodbye and laying her to rest.
Thank you for helping us give Mel love and special moments in the time she has left. 💛
Latest donations
Thank you so much 🤍 we’re incredibly grateful
Thank you so much 🤍 we’re incredibly grateful
Thank you so much 🤍 we’re incredibly grateful
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