Michael & Michele Chin - Unicorn Foundation NZ

Michele and I are joining the Tour of New Zealand with Malcolm and Carrie to ride the North Island 700km in 7 days, we are supporting them and we’d like you to support their cause.

Some background: February 2009 Malcolm calls Michael “ride the length of NZ, you keen?” I think for 6 seconds, of course I’m in. “By the way were raising money for the heart foundation.”

Knee operation, saddle sores, 2000km and $1million dollars later we complete.

That was then

Fast forward 2 years. Still riding! Another cycle tour of East Cape, Malcolm his usual inconsistent self, undertrained, expert in suffering, but a great companion and a great trip.

Two months later Malcolm has NET Cancer !

In his inimitable fashion he researches, works, suffers and so far is doing great. He has great support from family, friends and colleagues, and is doing well.

Not everyone is so fortunate.

Not everyone has the contacts and can afford to travel to Melbourne for investigation and treatment.

Unicorn Foundation NZ wants to make it easier for those with NET to access appropriate investigations and treatment either in NZ or overseas. It provides support for patients and their families. Malcolm has put his hand up to help others in need.

We are putting our hand out! to help Malcolm and the other Kiwis that develop Neuroendocrine Tumours.

There is special type of CT scan called a GaTate scan, call it the NET scan, its easier. This shows with a great level of accuracy where the NET cancers are, how active they are, how much they have spread, and most importantly whether they are suitable for a special treatment called PRRT. Malcolm’s cancer was suitable for PRRT. At present the only way kiwis with NETs can have this most important diagnostic test that helps determine their future, is to go to Australia, with no government support. This is very tough for some people.

As a start we are trying to raise $400,000 to create a programme over the next two years, where around 100 New Zealanders can access the right test at the right time to give them the best chance for the future.

Every dollar will make a huge difference so please support us as we embark on this important and worthy challenge.

- Michael and Michele Chin