Hi,

I am reaching out on behalf of my brother Andrew, who is facing a difficult battle with the recurrence of neuroendocrine cancer. This is a rare cancer that develops when the cells that link the nervous and hormonal systems grow and divide uncontrollably, causing tumors in any location of the body.

His initial diagnosis occurred in 2002, with cancer identified in the lymph nodes near his heart and lungs. He underwent a thoracotomy procedure to remove the affected nodes, spending his 21st birthday in the hospital recovering, when he should have been celebrating graduation into adulthood.

Shortly after, he underwent radiation treatment, entering remission. And if this wasn’t enough, Andrew was still able to graduate on time from the University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville with his degree in Sport Science.

Unfortunately, Andrew relapsed in 2008, with cancer returning and impacting his liver. The second treatment involved removing one-third of his liver.

Today, he is confronting yet another recurrence.

Diagnosis & Current Treatment

After experiencing new symptoms earlier this year, extensive medical evaluations confirmed that the cancer had returned for a third time, this time in his lungs.

Andrew is currently receiving care under a multi-disciplinary oncology team at the Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital (UK), with a treatment plan that will include a segmental resection of the upper lobe of his right lung, again through thoracotomy. In other words, the medical team has decided that his best option is to remove 1/3 of his lung, while continuing treatment to find the source of this recurrence.

His doctors remain dedicated to pursuing the most effective treatment; obviously, this process will be extensive, highly specialized, and require significant recovery time.

Why Support Is Needed

During COVID, we lost both of our parents in South Africa. After settling our parents’ affairs, I helped Andrew move to England so that he could have access to the NHS system since his medical needs are significant. Understand, he’s on his own in England; I am his only remaining immediate family. Because of the severity of this procedure, I will also be traveling to help support and give him care throughout the surgery and recovery process.

While the NHS in the UK provides coverage for the procedure and hospitalization, recurrence of cancer will lead to considerable financial challenges owing to an extended recovery period, required follow-up treatment and rehabilitation, and reduced capacity to work. Funds raised will directly assist with:

• Substantial traveling for additional treatments and follow-ups

• Need for additional clothing and protective gear for the upcoming winter

to avoid complications

• An at-home pedal bike for cardiopulmonary rehab

• Loss of income to devote time to care and support.

Your generosity ensures Andrew can focus entirely on health and healing without the added stress of mounting financial strain.

Our Commitment

Over the last twenty years, Andrew has shown incredible strength, resilience, and determination in his ongoing fight. Witnessing his tenacity firsthand, I remain extremely hopeful and deeply committed to providing him with every available resource.

We would be sincerely grateful for your donation, your willingness to share this fundraiser, and your support during this crucial time.

Yours in Health,

David