Hello, my name is Chelsea Rodgers and thank you for taking the time to read our story.

At the start of 2024, my incredible dad, Steve, was hospitalised with Kidney Failure. After nearly two years of unanswered questions and countless hospital stays, he began dialysis, this induced a rare skin disease - but to this day, we still don’t have a diagnosis. His body is attacking itself, and no one knows why.

In May 2025, Steve spent 8 weeks in hospital as his health declined and in June underwent life-changing surgery and had his leg amputated. It’s been a tough journey - physically, emotionally, and mentally; for Steve, my mum Gaylene, my brother Clinton, and our entire family.

If you know Steve, you know he’s a hands-on, hard-working man who’s always there to lend a hand or fix a problem. Over the past few years, his life has changed dramatically. Steve has had to stop working, and fights a daily battle for his health, and my mum has taken significant time off and ultimately resigned to care for him - driving him to appointments, staying with him in Wellington Hospital, and managing the day to day strain.

Living overseas while studying, I’ve felt helpless at times. So, I’m running a marathon 12th October 2025 in honour of my dad, as a tribute to his strength and resilience, and to support him through one of the biggest battles of his life.

Running is my outlet, but this time, every step is for him, and for our family. I hope this effort can raise both support and awareness and remind my dad that he’s not facing this alone.

This fundraiser will go toward helping with the many unexpected costs that come with serious illness and recovery, including:

• Travel costs between Masterton and Wellington for ongoing appointments

• Living costs such as food, mortgage, and power

• Home modifications for accessibility

• Support toward a wheelchair-accessible vehicle

Any amount you’re willing to contribute is so deeply appreciated, and if you can’t donate at this time, sharing with your friends and family would mean the world to us.

Thank you for helping me run toward something bigger than myself, and for standing with my family through this tough journey. xo