Young Mother Urgently Seeks Funds for Life-Saving Cancer Treatment

A young mother from New Zealand, Sariah Nesbit, is facing a critical challenge in her battle against an aggressive form of gastric cancer. Diagnosed in March 2023 at the age of 25, Nesbit learned that her cancer was classified as advanced and inoperable. Despite being given approximately one year to live, her recent progress has sparked hope. However, the high costs of treatment threaten her chance for survival.

Nesbit, a mother to Mahalia-June, aged 5, and Amāia, aged 4, initially faced a grim prognosis. After undergoing a regimen of chemotherapy and the unfunded immunotherapy drug Nivolumab, her latest scans revealed promising results. In September, medical imaging showed no signs of cancer spread, leading her medical team to change her status from inoperable to operable. “The response was so significant that my giant tumour, which was basically the size of my whole stomach, had shrunk almost completely,” Nesbit shared.

Following this positive development, Nesbit underwent significant surgery in October 2023 to remove the primary tumour. Out of 24 lymph nodes examined, cancer was detected in only one. Despite these advancements, Nesbit is acutely aware that her fight is far from over.

The Financial Burden of Treatment

To maintain her health and prevent recurrence, her oncologists have advised continuing Nivolumab for an additional six months. However, this drug remains unfunded in New Zealand, and Nesbit needs to raise $45,000 to complete her treatment. “If I do not continue treatment within two months, my cancer will likely start to grow,” she explained.

Nesbit is reaching out for community support, stating, “I am asking for your help one last time to cross this finish line. You have already bought me time; now you are helping me continue to have a future with my girls.”

Her mother, Marie Nesbit, has voiced her concern on social media, highlighting the emotional toll this battle has taken on the family. “No mum should have to fight this damn hard just to stay alive for her babies,” she stated. Marie expressed her deep frustration over the high costs associated with potentially life-saving treatments, wishing she could do more to assist her daughter.

A Journey of Resilience

While the road ahead remains uncertain, Nesbit’s determination is evident. After the surgery, her children noticed positive changes, often asking if she would be going to the doctor or hospital. “This year, the number one question is, ‘Mum, are you going to the doctors?’ because they’ve seen me go in and out so much,” she remarked.

Nesbit plans to return to university next year to continue her law studies, which she had to pause during her treatment. Her story resonates with many, highlighting the challenges faced by families dealing with cancer and the financial burdens that often accompany critical medical care.

As she navigates this difficult journey, Nesbit’s plea for funds serves as a reminder of the importance of community support in the face of adversity. Her resolve to fight for her life and the future of her children remains a powerful testament to resilience amid hardship.