The reason I started Care Box actually begins way back when I was 25 years old and diagnosed with a hereditary cancer syndrome called M.E.N. Type 1. This genetic condition was passed down from my father, who died from it at just 44 - I was only 3 years old. Eight members of our family are currently affected by this disease, and I became an advocate early on because so little was known about it. I wanted to try and understand this complex condition, because it will continue through our generations.

Over the years I've undergone numerous surgeries to remove tumours. The goal is always to catch them early enough before they spread — but not too early, because constant surgery and treatment can seriously affect your quality of life. It's a delicate balance.

When I was facing my first major surgery, I desperately wanted to talk to other patients about their experience - especially about recovery time and what it would require, as I was working full time and juggling a young family. But there wasn't an organisation in New Zealand that even knew about these types of tumours, let alone any groups that brought patients together.

I was so frustrated by the lack of support that in 2012 I founded Unicorn Foundation New Zealand (now called Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation NZ) to help patients and families affected by Neuroendocrine Cancers. Our incredible team grew quickly, and we achieved so much in a short space of time. In 2015, we fundraised to establish a key diagnostic scan called the GaTate PET-CT - the first of its kind in New Zealand. This same technology has since gone on to help thousands of Prostate Cancer patients too (known as PSMA). We also lobbied government agencies to establish a life-extending treatment called PRRT, which is now available to all New Zealanders. I set up a free national support service staffed by nurses that continues to this day, and I've participated in and contributed to numerous research projects - something I continue to do whenever I can.

These experiences have given me a unique perspective on life. They've taught me how important it is to learn everything you can about any health challenge you face, and the real difference that timely treatment and support can make. They've also shown me that tough times become a lot more manageable when you have good people in your corner.

That's exactly why Care Box exists - to help facilitate those meaningful connections and ensure no one feels alone in their journey. When someone you care about is going through a challenging time, you can't fix what they're facing. But if they know you're there for them, it helps more than you might realise.

Care Box is here to make it easier for you, to be there for them.

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