Fighting Leukaemia and Blood Cancer in Taranaki

28 May, 2025

Established in 1977, Leukaemia & Blood Cancer NZ (LBC) works in Taranaki and throughout the country, with a vision to cure and a mission to care.

“We provide up-to-date information to patients and hospitals, generate awareness about blood cancers and blood conditions, advocate on behalf of patients and fund research,” said Nicki Roy, LBC Senior Support Services Coordinator.

“People are often overwhelmed when they get their diagnosis. So, it can be really helpful to have a support coordinator to help them come to terms with what’s ahead and what they need to do.

“We’re there to provide support throughout their individual experience with blood cancer, whatever that’s like for them.”

Over 150 people in the Taranaki region had regular contact with LBC in the last year. However, without government funding the organisation relies on grants and fundraising to support their work.

Toi Foundation funding of $5k enables them to run a regular peer support group in Taranaki.

“The group is growing – we had a record of 50 RSVPs recently – so we need quite a specific venue to host it,” said Nicki.

“It needs to be warm, with comfortable seating and to provide morning tea. We need easy access and room for wheelchairs. Nearby parking is essential too, because fatigue is a big issue.

“People can feel quite isolated when they have a blood cancer, so coming together to get encouragement and connection with others is really valuable. I facilitate the group, but the wisdom and shared experiences come from the people. It’s real, and we hold space for people on their difficult days. It’s an optimistic and encouraging group.

“Having a comfortable, consistent place to go can be the difference between whether someone comes or not on a day when they’re not feeling so good. So, it’s been wonderful to go to the Auto Lodge, where they look after us really well. To have that for our regular venue has been awesome.”

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