In September 2024, our beloved sister Ruth Mitchener was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer, which had spread to her liver and lungs. She was only 40 years old, living on the Kapiti Coast with her husband Andrew and their two young children, aged 9 and 6. The news came as a terrible shock to the family.

Ruth is currently undergoing intensive chemotherapy every two weeks in Wellington for the next 5 months. The treatment has left her unable to work and requires full care from her husband. Andrew has had to reduce his hours to part-time so he can care for Ruth and take on the responsibility of looking after the children.

Before her diagnosis, Ruth had just received a scholarship to pursue a PhD in Industrial Design – a dream she has now put on hold. In the current situation, Ruth’s family is facing many difficulties, from living expenses to caring for Ruth during her treatment.

We are asking for your help to support Ruth and her family through this challenging time. Your contribution will not only help the family have a place to live and food on the table, but will also help Ruth spend more quality time with her children and loved ones.

Ruth has always been independent and does not rely on others easily. But now she needs all of us to support her. To her children, Ruth means the world and her greatest wish is to be able to continue to be with her family in the years to come. Thank you so much for all your love and support.