'Nauseating, shaking, shock': Stuff reporter Jo McKenzie-McLean on learning she has bowel cancer
The Cromwell mother-of-two was suffering from intense stomach pain and vomiting before being diagnosed in January.
"It is shocking that cancer patients, fighting for their lives, have to rely on the generosity and kindness of family, friends and strangers to get drugs to help treat this cruel disease that affects so many of us," Jo says.
"My heart is bursting with overwhelming love and gratitude for the support shown to me and my family. It is giving me a surge of strength and faith in my ability to fight this every step of the way."
Read Jo's story here.
Jo is fundraising to cover her medical bills. If you would like to contribute, visit her Givealittle page here.
Time to Tickle Your Thinker 🧠
If a zookeeper had 100 pairs of animals in her zoo, and two pairs of babies are born for each one of the original animals, then (sadly) 23 animals don’t survive, how many animals do you have left in total?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
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Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.5% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.4% I want to be able to choose.
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47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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