Unfunded cancer treatment needed 26-year-old's survival
Massey resident Tegan Hollier, 26, received a shock diagnosis of stage four bowel cancer, "teetering on curable", on January 15, despite having almost no symptoms. However, she has since been told her only chance at survival is Keytruda, an unfunded immunotherapy drug with a $112,000 price tag, due to also being diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome, which doesn't respond well to chemotherapy.
"I'm just really angry, because literally my life is in my own hands and now it depends if I can get enough money. It's pretty heartbreaking really," said Hollier, who returned to work less than a month after having major surgery.
The drug Hollier needs is only funded for advanced melanoma, despite having dramatic results for Lynch Syndrome patients worldwide.
Should Keytruda be funded in NZ?
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.5% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15.5% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
BLOCKHOUSE BAY COMMUNITY MARKET THIS SATURDAY MORNING!
1st MARKET BACK FOR 2O26! WE'RE BACK AND WILL BE AT GREENBAY COMMUNITY CENTRE BEHIND NEW WORLD OR ON BARRON RD OFF VARDON RD AS BHB CENTRE IS HAVING AN UPGRADE. CANT WAIT TO SEE YOU THERE!
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