Winter 2005

inside�this�issue:Jack Johnson meets CanTeeners

Get on board for Bandanna Week

Top Artists at Auckland Weekend Retreat

Meet the Board

NATIONAL MAGAZINEWINTER 2005

P r i n c i p a l S p o n s o r o f C a n T e e n

CanTeen would like to thank the New Zealand Herald for their sponsorship of $120 000.

Karen Miller – President

I am 23 years old and have been a member of CanTeen, as a sibling member, for seven years. I have held leadership positions in CanTeen at Branch and Division levels, and held the position of Vice President from 2003 until my election as National President in April 2005. As part of my role as President I represent CanTeen on the Board of the Child Cancer Foundation (CCF).I studied Exercise Science and Business Studies at Massey University, and now work as an Occupational Therapy Assistant at a Special Needs School in Wellington. I am also a lifeguard and enjoy sports, especially indoor netball, running and water polo.

Charlotte Spence – Vice President

I have been a member of CanTeen since 2000. During that time I have been involved at various levels within the organisation, having held positions of Vice President and President of Waikato/Bay of Plenty/East Cape Division. This is the second year that I have sat on the board.I am currently studying Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management at Waikato University. In between CanTeen, university and stopping to breathe, I have a husband and a “darling” 2 year old daughter who keeps me on my toes.

Samuel England – Auckland/Northland Member Representative

I have been involved with CanTeen since late 2001, having had cancer as a child and been involved with Child Cancer Foundation. At the end of 2002 I joined the local Auckland committee, and the following year was elected as Auckland Division Member Rep on the Board.I am also a Companion for Camp Quality, after being a camper since I was six.I am currently studying Sport & Recreation at Manukau Institute of Technology, and have a strong interest in Outdoor Pursuits.

Rachel Armstrong - Auckland/Northland Board Volunteer

Representative

After being diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia following my graduation from Massey University, I joined CanTeen as a member in 1993. I was President of Waikato/Bay of Plenty/East Cape Division for a year. I then became a volunteer for CanTeen Auckland Branch. In between volunteering, I spent 5 years travelling the world. I have a Diploma in Business Studies (Travel and Tourism) and currently work in the fi nance department of a wholesale travel company in Auckland.

Tony Weitenberg - Waikato/Bay of Plenty/ East Cape Volunteer Representative

I have been a volunteer with CanTeen since 1997 with different roles over this period. I have been on the board since end of 2003 and have also been involved with the Personnel Sub-committee within this time.I have a diploma in Human Resource Management through Waikato University. Currently I am a Team Leader and a Consultant with a national employment agency which covers a lot of different personnel issues of everyday employment.I live in Hamilton with my partner and enjoy spending time with my son.

Matt Truman – Northern South Island Member Representative

Hi my name is Matt Truman and I am the Northern South Island Member Representative. I was diagnosed in 1999 with a brain tumour and consequently lost a lot of my sight. I have been a member since that time and have held the positions of President (Nelson/Marlborough) Vice President (Christchurch/Westland) and have been a member on the Programmes Advisory Committee. I am currently in the third year of my Bachelor of Commerce degree majoring in marketing and also Maori Language. I believe that my degree has great relevance to the work that I do on the board and gives me management, economic and obviously marketing skills that help me to fulfi l my current position on the Board. I look forward to this year and to the continued improvement of CanTeen New Zealand

David Gunn - Northern South Island Volunteer Representative

I joined CanTeen last year in October/November as a volunteer, and was elected to the Board soon after that. I currently work in Oncology at Christchurch Hospital as a Physics Technician, which involves performing quality assurance on our three Linear Accelerators and the associated equipment. Prior to the hospital I worked as a technician at NIWA (National Institute of Water and Atmosphere).I have a BSc in physics and am currently studying towards a Masters in Medical Physics at Canterbury University. I also have experience in computer hardware, enjoy mountain biking and have an interest in classic cars.

The national magazine is published quarterly.Contributions are welcomed and can be made through your

CanTeen Coordinator. The deadline for contributions to the next magazine is

11 August 2005Editor: Leanne Ryburn and Angela Lees phone: (09) 303 4444

or email [email protected] views and opinions in this magazine are those of

contributors and not necessarily endorsed by CanTeen

Hi. My name is Karen Miller and I’m CanTeen’s new National President. I was elected in April and prior to that I was the Vice President for

two years. Firstly a little bit about myself: I am 23 years old and have been a member for 7 years. I work as an Occupational Therapy assistant at a Special Needs School, am a lifeguard and into sports especially indoor netball, running and water polo.

The National AGM was held in April in Wellington. Let me introduce you to the Board for 2005.

National President Vice President Karen Miller Charlotte Spence

Auckland/ Northland Waikato Member: Sam England Member: To be advised Volunteer: Rachel Armstrong Volunteer: Tony Weitenberg

Central Northern South IslandMember: To be advised Member: Matt TrumanVolunteer: To be advised Volunteer: David Gunn

Otago/Southland CCF RepMember: Rachel Hogg Colin HitchenVolunteer: To be advised

Financial Advisor (non-voting) Immediate Past Chair (non-voting)Simon Lala Prudence Walker

Both the Waikato Member and Volunteer positions are yet to be fi lled (Tony is shifting from Waikato), so if you think being on the Board might interest you, please speak to your Coordinator. The Central Division positions are in the process of being fi lled and should be fi nalised in the next few weeks.People on the Board represent the membership of CanTeen New Zealand, and work towards creating better outcomes for all CanTeen Members at a National level.

I would like to thank Prudence for all the time and effort she has committed to CanTeen over the last 2 years. It has been a challenging time for a National President, and there have been some important business issues to be addressed.

We are currently in the process of identifying a new National Manager. Our objective is to have the new person in place by the end of June.

I would like to extend a huge thank you to Jim Barclay (CEO Child Cancer Foundation) and his team at CCF for their support and guidance, especially over the past few months. It is important to have a good supportive relationship between both organisations to assist us to both meet our respective missions for all our members and families, some of whom overlap both organisations due to the age range of members.

There has been a study into the benefi ts of continuing to either lease or purchase the National Offi ce building. This identifi ed that the purchase option was in the best interest of CanTeen and we now jointly own the building with the Child Cancer Foundation.

The CanTeen website has been long awaiting an upgrade and we are at the stage of developing it. It will be a fantastic resource for young people living with cancer and others interested in CanTeen. This is an important “shop front to the world” for CanTeen and it is important that we present ourselves in a professional manner to members and families, as well as the general public, volunteers, sponsors and donors.

The need to restructure the Board to more appropriately meet the needs of CanTeen in the years ahead has been identifi ed. CanTeen has grown and there is a need to ensure the new requirements of CanTeen are matched by having the appropriate skills on the Board. There is a subcommittee currently working on this and more information will be made available to members in the near future.

CanTeen has pledged money over the next 5 years to Ronald McDonald House Auckland who provide accommodation for young people and their families who travel to Auckland for treatment. The treatment centre in Auckland is becoming increasingly important nationally with some members travelling from as far as Southland. This will assist with the development of our relationship with Ronald McDonald House, and providing advice regarding the needs of young people that should be met through the lounge room.

We are also helping to fi nance the Paediatric Oncology Steering Group for two research projects on Late Effects and Survivorship. The purpose of this research is to:

• Improve the quality of life and the outcomes for children and young people who have had cancer.• Identify learning and educational issues early and assist with remedial treatment.• Provide equity of access to long term follow up services across the country.

This is an exciting opportunity for CanTeen to be involved with and in the long term will directly benefi t CanTeeners.

CanTeen’s future relies on CanTeeners continuing to stay involved and keeping it alive. I would like to encourage experienced members to become more involved in leadership roles in their divisions and branches so that the less experienced, newer members continue to benefi t from their infl uence and support. Experienced members can receive good skill development which can enhance career opportunities. The objective is to ensure the CanTeen Vibe and experience is maintained for future CanTeen members.

Support, Develop and Empower

karen�millerNational President

national�president�s�report

meet�the�board

4page

Rachel Hogg – Otago/Southland Member Representative

I have been a member of CanTeen Otago since I fi nished treatment for Ewing’s Sarcoma in 1996. I have been on the Otago Branch Committee for several years, and was Vice President for Otago in 2004. I am member of CanTeen’s Programmes Advisory Committee and am also currently representing CanTeen on CCF’s scholarship committee. I taught English in Japan and France after fi nishing high school, and am now attempting to complete two degrees (Social Geography and Law) at Otago University.Since getting a melanoma in 2002, I am also a keen campaigner on the benefi ts of sunscreen...

Prudence Walker – Immediate Past Chairperson (co-opted position)

I have been a member of CanTeen since 1999, when I was diagnosed with a Chordoma, a potentially malignant brain tumour. I have held leadership positions in CanTeen at Branch, Division and National Levels, and have sat on the Board of the Child Cancer Foundation representing CanTeen.I am the Vice Chair of the International Confederation of Childhood Cancer Parent Organisations (ICCCPO) Survivor Group and have been one of the key people in the development of this international group to date.I am a telephone counsellor for Lifeline Hawkes Bay and have been a companion for Camp Quality for 5 years. I have studied Hotel Management and Rehabilitation.

Simon Lala – Financial Advisor

I am married with two daughters, one of whom was diagnosed with Leukaemia over 15 years ago and is now a healthy young adult.I am a Chartered Accountant and have a public practice based in Auckland.I am President of the International Confederation of Childhood Cancer Parent Organisations (ICCCPO) and the immediate past Chairman of the NZ Child Cancer Foundation, and I now sit on their Board as the fi nancial advisor.I have extensive experience in the Not-for-Profi t sector and have been involved with CanTeen for over 10 years.I am passionate about helping young people with cancer and their families.

Colin Hitchen – CCF Representative

I have served on the CanTeen Board since November 2003, and have sat on the Child Cancer Foundation board as Chairperson of the Otago/Southland Division since 2002. I am also the current Chairperson of the Child Cancer Foundation National Accommodation Trust.

5page

Treasurer. We congratulate them both. I know it sounds like all work and no play but there was time to unwind with a round of roller tag (which is very physically demanding) and after there was an opportunity to soak in the Mineral pools for that Canteen athlete who had pulled a butt muscle (I know I did).

Rachel did us Taranakians proud with her speech to the Country Woman’s Institute in South Taranaki. Rachel really hit home with our motto Support, Develop and Empower. We thank Rachel for giving up her time to do the speech for CanTeen and we also thank the Country Woman’s Institute for their kind donation.

Finally, at the end of a very busy April Michelle and I attended a Funding Expo in Hawera. The day was fi lled with guest speakers, workshops, information stands and handouts, and a yummy catered lunch. As all the information didn’t apply to CanTeen Taranaki much, we did come away with ideas on fundraising, places where we can and cannot apply for funding, Information on a web based directory on other places we can apply for funding and where we can access this information and guidelines for applying for funding. All of this information will be reported back to the committee for discussion next week and I am sure we will benefi t from this.

Well that’s all I have for the business side of things in CanTeen Taranaki. I hope the rest of the Taranaki page is a real treat for you all.

Upcoming events are a Committee meeting next week and Leadership weekend at the end of May. I can’t WAIT!

Farewell until next time,

jessie�herbert�(Vice President)

I’ve just been looking through the job description of a branch co-ordinator for CanTeen. Now, it says a lot about facilitating, co-ordinating, liaising, supporting, accountability; lots of big words like that. However, nowhere (and I’ve read through it a couple of times,

just to be sure) does it mention hurling yourself off the top of a dam in the company of a group of screaming mad people. Hey Penny, I think you neglected to mention that one in the interview!

What an introduction to my new job I’ve had. Even before I’d offi cially started I had the pleasure of driving some of the Taranaki members (and Tom who we picked up on route in Wanganui) to camp in Ashhurst. Nice peaceful drive down, I thought. And it was ‘till we picked up the rowdy crew from Hawera – you know who they are. Somehow we managed to arrive very late to camp, I think it must have been all the bad jokes – put me off my driving. Everyone was waiting patiently for us (thanks) and all I wanted was a nice cuppa, but no such luck – straight into the games, egg & spoon, donut eating, sack races… Unfortunately I had to head back home the next morning (and missed throwing myself of a bridge – I see a pattern emerging here). The journey truly was a quiet one – too quiet, not a single “does it run on batteries?” I spent most of the journey wondering, what had I let myself in for?

Well, it’s a couple of months later and I’ve a slightly better idea of what I’m in for – a fantastic journey with an awesome bunch of young people who are allowing me share some of their future memories. I haven’t met you all yet, but if you’re anything like my ‘Naki CanTeeners I can’t wait till I have the pleasure of your company.

“What a Treat” seems to be the only way to sum up CanTeen in the ‘Naki lately.

We started off the year with a bit of good old fashioned ten-pin bowling. We had a Striking good time where no CanTeen talent was wasted knocking down those pins. Jazz taught us a thing or two on how you don’t have to sacrifi ce fashion for a high demanding athletic sport such as ten-pin bowling. And as usual we fi nished the night off with a few Pizzas…. I mean a canteen event without it… could it be done?? I think not!

Then once again it was time to lap up that last bit of sunshine with Central Division Summer Camp. As it was Emma and Shrek’s fi rst trip away we had to show them what a jolly old time we CanTeeners can have. After picking Thomas up in Wanganui and seeing the look on his face when he was getting into a van full of girls we got right into the 20 Question game. (Inspired by whom we shall not name) The fi rst being ‘some run on batteries but you plug it into the wall, it ranges between $2 and $200, and can be brought at the Warehouse’. I mean what could it not be?? (the answer will be in the next magazine). Once again our Volunteers were pretty amazing and couldn’t have got to where we wanted to go without them, as we are not aloud to drive the vans. But on the plus side every outing was accompanied by a “knock three times” sing along. The days were fi lled with bridge swinging, jet boating, the beach and getting ourselves a wee bit lost in the amazing maze of mazes. Our nights were fi lled with those classic get-to-know-you games that we have all grown to love and learning important skills such as ‘how to eat a doughnut’. We did save the best to last though, being the quiz night with Gordon and Dr Bob. It was a tough challenge involving some very curly questions and was very close at the end but the Crazy Scramblers did manage to come out on top. After long hard working days like that we needed a little substance to bring our energy levels up and that’s when a little mish to the treaty box for some snickers was in order. We had a very enjoyable trip home on the bus and even managed to make ourselves a new friend… though at one stage I think it was more because he was a little overwhelmed by our friendliness he had no choice but to like us.

Recently the ‘Naki decided to break out and do something involving a little bit of adrenaline, so of course Dam Dropping was the only sensible choice.

Rachel, Emma, Shrek and I boarded a small piece of metal with engines on the Thursday afternoon, on our way to Art Workshop. We arrived in Auckland to fi nd no one wanting us. Just as we were about

to check into lost-and-found, Leanne raced in, saving the day yet again.It was great to see some old friends again, along with Elspeth, DJ, Simon and Tee.Friday we all woke bright and eager to start painting, the bright bit might be a small tinsy winsy lie.Diane, Heather and Carol were fantastic, helping to bring ideas to fruition and adding a few of their own along the way, the art work appearing was amazing and every one was having a great time doing it. We fi nished for the day then set off in our trusty vans into town, where we saw The Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy, then had a bit of ‘retail therapy’ and guy-perving.Saturday morning rose, and we rolled out off bed looking fantastic ready for the fi nal day of working on our masterpieces. I slept in, just a little; well ok

6page 7page

introducing: michelle�kenyon-robertsBy the way, I’m Michelle the new co-ordinator for Taranaki, this is meant to be my article to introduce myself. What can I tell you? I’m not a Kiwi and I’ve the funny accent to prove it. I’ve lived in NZ for 2 years now and loved every minute of it. I’ve done many things in my past and lived in many places. And I apparently (according to Rachel – so it must be true) wear vegetarian shorts!

michelle�kenyon�robertsCo-ordinator, CanTeen Taranaki (and very proud of it)

We all suited up into some pretty HOT wetsuits and prepared ourselves for the 8 meter drop of rushing water. After hours of going down this way and that way and even without a kayak we all pretty much had numb toes. Soon after that was had a little incident involving a few scrapped elbows so decided then to call it a day and head back to the Fendall’s for some GI burgers. After a small attempt on the BBQ I soon handed the tongs to GI knowing his years of experience I felt our burgers would be safe in his hands. The day was enjoyed by all and was defi nitely a treat as Michelle’s fi rst Taranaki Activity.

Art Workshop was fast approaching and Grete, Emma, Shrek and myself were lucky enough to head off to Jaffa land for a somewhat unusual experience. After our warm welcome at the airport with us sporting a very groovy look we were rushed off to the art room and chained to the desk to produce some more of those fantastic Christmas cards. Am defi nitely sure that Ryfendall will be making an appearance in the pack! It was a fantastic weekend though and I even managed to learn some very important life facts (10 rice crackers = 1 point). It was hard to have to leave but Shrek’s idea of playing with the vending machines in the airport soon managed to cheer us up. Or was that the sugar??

One of our much loved CanTeeners, Melissa Long had been spending a lot of time in Starship so when we heard the news of her coming back home to the ‘Naki we decided to have a bit of a welcome back activity. Mel decided on heading out to String of Beads to see what kind of creations we could come up with. We had a fantastic night and come out with some beautiful pieces of jewellery.

Well after that novel I think it will be a while before you hear from me again, defi nitely not never though as we all know I do have a lot to say for myself so just be on the look out. I am off to America for 4 months and will be missing CanTeen terribly. Will be thinking of you all while I am soaking up the sun and spending my days on the waterfront. But do have my spies out to what you are up to so keep that in mind…. Hope things are going great for you all wherever you may be… thinking of you all.Lots of Love and Big Hugs.

rachel�fendallTaranaki President

�what�a�treat

greetings�from�thethe�naki

art�workshop: creating�masterpieces

For all of you who don’t know me, my name is Jessie and I am Taranaki’s Vice President.Well we have all been busy little bees here in Taranaki and I can reassure

you there is never a dull moment. Earlier on in the year we were treated to a new Coordinator Michelle who, with her vegetarian shorts can tackle any CanTeen Taranaki event. Unfortunately that meant saying good buy to the much-appreciated help we received from Diane in Tania. We are all very pleased to have Michelle on board.

In the First week of April Rachel and I were given the opportunity to experience life as a board member and roll with the high rollers in Wellington. Our corporate look wasn’t far from making an outstanding impression with the board members and at the national AGM later that day. As we could naturally walk the walk and talk the talk Rachel was convinced that Mike does the best massages and I learnt about how the board is made up, about all the decisions and rolls, and the process of decision making at such a high level within CanTeen.

Also in April CanTeen Taranaki experienced their fi rst Committee training which I think is something all committees should do in CanTeen. The training was held in the Eco lodge in New Plymouth where we also stayed for the Saturday night. This allowed us to bond as team and to learn more about how a committee should interact. The biggest thing I learnt was if I was stuck on the moon, I would rather be stuck on there with my committee than by myself. From this we found that we might be a strong person but we are all are so much stronger when we

work as a team. Things that we developed while on

committee training were a phone tree personalised for CanTeen Taranaki’s needs which is also up and running. We also brainstormed fundraising and activity ideas. We elected a new committee member Emma Fisher and Grete Dent took on the vacant roll of

I was up for lunch, you know!! My painting turned out much better than I expected and am now waiting for the award nominations to arrive via post.Saturday evening saw us don our ‘glad-rags’, board the vans and set of for dinner down at the waterfront, then to Movenpick for ice cream, at our *RESERVED* tables, yes you heard right *RESERVED*, gee I felt special right then.Drove up to “hook-up point’ for a quick look at the city lights, then home to bed, well I mean yes, yes we went straight to bed. Sunday morning arrived and we bid our tearful goodbyes, leaving with happy memories of fun times and a sense of achievement.

grete�dentCanTeen Taranaki

K, for all of you who don’t know me, my full name is Stephanie Richmond, but it is ok to call me Steph. I am 17 years of age and I have been a part of CanTeen for about 3 years now. Being a part of CanTeen Waikato

East Cape B.O.P, has helped me in so many ways, so I am more then honoured to give back the time and help that went toward me and my younger sister. So I am now sitting as the President of Waikato/Bay of Plenty/East Cape Division.Here is an update of what has been happening since the last report; Lee Ayson stood down as our coordinator towards the end of the last year, and as her replacement we got back our old but new coordinator, Sandie Schimanski, which in a funny way could be good or maybe not! Our fi rst activity was gliding and it was a really good chance for every one to get together after such a long break. And we were able to meet our two new volunteers from Tauranga, Tony & Brett. Meetings at Starbucks have started

up again and we also have our fi rst “in person” committee meeting on the 14th of May, which gives the chance for all the new committee to get to know each other in this formal way. So that’s it from us for now – till next time

steph.

One Sunday in February Wellington CanTeeners got together and went 4-Wheel Driving out in Makara. All of us had a great time going up and down the muddy roads.

At lunchtime we stopped and had a BBQ on the shore of the beach. There was a buggy as well as the 4-Wheel Drives. The buggy was made up of car bits with no doors or windows. It was real fun riding around in it but you got really muddy. The driver also let us drive the buggy. Just as we were about to leave we went to look at the old gold mines. It was really dark in the tunnels.

By amy�stewart

On the Friday night, around 20 Northern South Island members and a few volunteers met up at the usual carpark, eagerly anticipating the long trip ahead of us. After a half hour wait the two mini vans

and the car were all ready to take on the traffi c-packed roads of the South Island.

A few stops later, and about an hour and a half on the road we stopped for fi sh’n’chips in a small town known by the locals as “Geraldvagus”, otherwise known as Geraldine to us normal people.

After another three hours on the road, with various stops for those of us who couldn’t hold our stomachs, we fi nally arrived in Twizel and searched for the Te Whare Mahana Marae which was where we were going to be staying over the weekend.

We un-packed the vans and set up our beds. Then Matt Truman, one of our senior members, explained to us the protocols of being on a Marae and the rules for the weekend and we all headed to bed.

On Saturday morning a few of us got up early for a run while everyone else slowly woke up. We had breakfast and tidied up the Marae before making our lunches and collecting snacks for the day out at Lake Middleton.

After a debrief on the activities we all hit the water either in kayaks, on biscuits or just to paddle or swim in the water. Then half an hour later the bigger and much faster action begun where we had a jet ski come out and give us all rides. Some of us even got to go for an extra swim or two out in the lake.

After a great couple of hours at the lake, we headed back to the Marae and met two great surprises… fl ash, polished Harley Davidsons! Wow, did they go fast!! Almost everyone had a ride and we than all had a bit of a rest before having a great dinner prepared by the volunteers and a few members.

After dinner a group of us went out to the Tekapo Observatory while the rest of us had free time at the Marae and played games and even watched a bit of the Crusaders match on T.V. After a couple of hours the people who went to the observatory arrived back at the Marae and we all sat down together to discuss the plan for the Sunday activities as there was a lot of different things going to be happening.

Sunday morning and everyone had to rise and shine early to prepare for the activities and clean up the Marae, ready for our departure later on in the day.

There were three activities for us to choose from, one being 4 wheel driving which departed the Marae at 7:30am so just enough time to have a very pleasing breakfast of bacon, eggs and toast generously cooked by the volunteers once again. The second group to leave was the horse trekking group which left at 8:30am while the fi nal group didn’t leave until 9am for the Lord of The Rings tour so they fi nished off the clean-up of the Marae

and loaded the luggage into the vans and car.

We then all met up after our activities for a lunch break and a look at the wonderful view at the Church of the Good Shepard in Tekapo.

We then thanked one of the local volunteers, Mac, who along with his wife Anne, were a great help for all of us over the weekend.

We departed Tekapo in the vans and car for “Geraldvagus” once again for an afternoon tea break and a bit of a throw around of the rugby ball. We also did a bit of a thankyou ceremony for the volunteers and Koral, who all generously gave up their time and effort towards helping us have an absolute awesome time over weekend.

In all, I think it’s pretty safe to say that we all had a great time and getting the wicked t-shirts that were designed by Trudi Johnston made the whole weekend even more special.

CanTeen N.S.I would just like to thank Trudi and her family and friends who helped us out over the weekend and organised a great schedule for us which indeed meant we were never bored. Thanks Heaps!!

keryn�densem Committee Member, NSI

canteen�has�been...

waikato

kia�ora�and�hello

wellington

A great big thank you to Rebecca for all her work in Waikato/Bay of Plenty/East Cape! She will be missed, but we wish her well in her travels and look forward to seeing her again in a few years!

sandieWaikato/BoP/EastCape Co-ordinator

CONGRATULATIONS to Charlotte Spence on turning 21 on the 25th of March and Te Waiora Waetford also turning 21 on the 1st of June (Te Wai is on the Waikato Committee and a presenter on the radio station)

four�wheel�driving12 February 2005

summer�camp�2005

On Tuesday 19 April, around twenty members (a lot of whom came out of the woodwork) went on a tour of ……. We saw lots of models, we learnt many new things about…….art. Most of us came away, inspired to want to work at …….. We were told about sets for a movie which was included in the tour of …….. Many of us will not be washing our hands or faces for some while due to the very cool things we got to touch, that certain famous people had once worn.

Due to the confi dentiality issue we are not able to disclose any information that offi cially happened but maybe in the near future we may release what happened and where we went. You may work it out by the picture but if you don’t you may just have to wait.......

On March 11th 2005 we all meet at Highland Home Christian Camp near Ashhurst. After meeting everyone, we played some great games to make sure we knew who everyone was. Next day we went

bridge swinging, which was about 20-25 metres high. Some people hade to conquer their fears. Jet boating was exciting and nerve-racking at times. In the afternoon it was time to go to the beach for swimming and some games. Sunday came before we knew it, and sadly it was time to leave, but not before we went to the amazing, Amazing Maze. The maze was lined with corn trees and was so big and wide that some of us got lost. Then after lunch and a few more games, the time to say the fi nal farewells came, the time to head back to our home in Wellington.

By alexander�o�connor��

northern�south�islandit�s�all�about�me

NSI Summer Camp

Twizel – March 18th, 19th & 20th

wellington�s�april�activityA Secret Squirrel Visit

11page

The girls hanging out with the puppies, waiting for turns in the glider

The committee took Tony out for dinner to say Thank You and all the best for his move down to Dunedin. Tony has been a valuable volunteer for Waikato/Bay of Plenty/East Cape Division for the last 6-7 years.

10page frances

3 years ago I was diagnosed with the “C word” we are all so familiar with. I was up at the oncology dept of Waikato Hosp when I saw the CanTeen poster. After all my treatment etc I decided to contact CanTeen and see

what it was all about and from that day, about 2 years ago, I haven’t looked back. CanTeen has been one of the most important parts of my life. I have met so many fantastic people and shared experiences with many of you. The opportunities and experiences I have been offered are once in a life time and I have had so much fun as well as coming to grips with my experience with cancer. A special privilege was being Co-president of Waikato/East Cape/BOP, this I got to work with a great bunch of people all with the same passion

of supporting, developing and empowering. As I write this, 10th May to be

exact it is 2 weeks till my 25th Birthday where I say my goodbyes to CanTeen, something I will fi nd extremely hard, however in 3 weeks I leave NZ on my OE, in which I will be back in 2 years, ready to be volunteer for CanTeen, so hope to see many of you then. I admire all of you for what you have been through in your life and what you have to follow. Thanks to everyone who I have got to know personally and I’m sure I will keep many friendships. Thanks to co-ordinators Sandie and Lee and the other staff and volunteers I have got to know during my time in CanTeen. I can defi nitely say my cancer experience would not be for the better if I hadn’t joined CanTeen. Take care, stay out of trouble…and follow your dreams. Becks

by rebecca�o�brien (nee: Watson)

I think back in the days, when I was happy. I had things going for me, I had lots of friends and I was even in a band. Things were starting to ‘kick off’! We were about to make a demo CD, then one day I fell very ill, but I knew I hadn’t been right for four years.

I went and got some tests done as I’d been having excruciating pain in my hip at the top of my femur. I had an MRI scan done and that showed up as cancer in my bone marrow. When I went into hospital, they did a bone marrow tissue biopsy to make sure they knew exactly what they were dealing with. When the doctors and my surgeon told me that I had cancer, I broke down in tears and asked “am I going to die?”

They told me I would if I didn’t have treatment. I was horrifi ed, terrifi ed and very scared. My mum, dad and younger brother were sitting in the room at the time I got told. They didn’t move an inch or say a word. But I looked at them and they had that shocked look on their faces with disbelief in their eyes! I could tell that my family were about to cry, but they didn’t as I believe they were being strong for me.

My cancer was a 17cm spread and they immediately started me on a course of chemotherapy. Chemo made me very sick; I was throwing up at least ten-plus times every day! It’s been the absolutely hardest thing I have ever had to deal with in my life. I went from a young innocent girl, full of freedom, to a very sick girl with practically everything taken away from me and in hospital everyday for weeks and months. In the end I spent nearly a whole year in hospital.

I hated it, I really did. After the fi rst four weeks of chemo, my tumour had shrunk to half its original size and my doctors were very pleased with the outcome. I had lots of friends from down home, who took their time to come visit me heaps. I missed them so much; it got very lonely when no one was around visiting me.

All up, I had 14-15 sessions of chemotherapy, the strongest form for any child or adult treatment. As a result of the tumour down-sizing, they were then able to operate. But this was not just any minor surgery, this was three-quarters of a hip replacement where they remove the top of the femur (thigh bone) and also the hip joint and replace it with titanium metal.

It’s coming up nine months since my hip replacement. I was in a wheel chair for three to four months after the surgery then crutches. I still have to use them to this very day as I’ve been left with a permanent limp. I’m now in remission and have been since January 2005. Due to my hip replacement, I can’t run anymore and I fi nd it very diffi cult to walk for long distances as it’s too painful. I‘ve been told my walking will never be 100% again. I’m fully gutted. I used to be an excellent dancer. Now when I struggle to dance, it hurts. It sucks because the things I most love doing has been taken away from me!

The pains in my leg still haven’t gone away. I went and saw my surgeon about the intense pain. He gave me a bone scan and a blood test to see what could be possibly still causing it. My surgeon said ‘the only way to stop these pains is to give you a full hip socket replacement’. I was like, you’ve got to be kidding me!

I’m now sorting out my life, getting it all back on track and will be doing a ‘Make-Up Artist – Film Production’ course sometime this year. I’m really looking forward to it. I’m also hoping to become a famous singer and a model. I can now get out into the big wide world and fulfi ll my dreams!

april�coutts� age 18NSI member

At the end of last year, Gisborne Girls’ and Boys’ High School Students got their feet moving for the benefi t of CanTeen.

We started off on our journey at a very early 5:30am, although we only managed to get on the road at about 6am, as some people slept through their alarms. We arrived in Wairoa at about 7:30am and after a quick visit to the toilet, and the dairy for some pies, we were on our way.

The weather was perfect, cloudy and mild, so no one got over-heated. Thanks to Gisborne Milk we all received a water bottle, which helped to keep us refreshed throughout the day. We all ran 6 stints each of 1 km, although the boys often went out and ran more. Some even got up to a stint of 6km – through the rugged hills this was pretty impressive. They just wanted to show off, but it didn’t bother us girls, the more they ran, the quicker we got home.

We reached the Gladstone Road-Lyttleton Road roundabout at around 4pm, which was pretty remarkable as we had originally calculated that we would be home around 6-7pm. We all got out of the bus and ran the last 1km together.

The day was a great success, especially thanks to everyone who contributed. Classic Hits Radio Station came in and rescued us after the police were not able to escort us, and this meant we also had music playing while we ran. Thank you also to our sponsors: • First Light Construction• Gisborne Auto Court• Enterprise Motor Court• Montana Wines• Currie Construction • Tony File Roofi ng • Eastland Bearings• Eastland Engineering• Seafood Specialists• Gisborne Courier• Awapuni Joinery

april�s�journey

April Coutts

remarkable�run�for�canteen�

Thank you also to Nuhaka General Store, who saw us running through Nuhaka, and were so impressed by what we were doing, they donated $50 to our cause. Thanks to the businesses who donated gear to us

to make sure we met traffi c regulations: Fulton Hogan for the use of your road signs and lights; Works Infrastructure for your road signs and jackets; ZGFM Classic Hits for the use of your car, your music and your newsreader-Jannah- who successfully ran about 10km of the relay. Thank you to Gisborne Herald for following our story. To the Gisborne Red Bus Service, thank you for giving us a great bus driver, Graham, who didn’t complain once about his foot cramp from driving at 5km per hour.

All up, the day was a great success and I am most pleased to announce that we raised $1400 for CanTeen to be used in our local area.

grete�fileHead Prefect of Gisborne Girls’ High School and run organiser

farewell�from�gena

Here’s a poem I want to share with you all:

Believe in Yourself.

Set your standards highYou deserve the best.Try for what you wantAnd never settle for less. Believe in yourselfNo matter what you choose.Keep a winning attitudeAnd you can never lose. Think about your destinationBut don’t worry if you strayBecause the most important thing Is what you’ve learned along the way. Take all that you’ve becomeTo be all that you can be.Soar above the cloudsAnd let your dreams set you free.

By jillian�k.�hunt

12page 13page

Hello everyone, I hope all is going well. Hasn’t the weather been good for so long? As I write this the cold is starting to creep in so the heater has come out of the closet.

The beginning months of 2005 have produced some successful events, rather evenly spread out. First there was the Corporate Box at Eden Park when the Blues played the Reds, and also a few members went to Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam. Since then we have held an innovative games day, designed more for those who are less likely to participate in the physically demanding activities, but also as a more relaxed, social type event. The new committee is starting to come together, with a meeting every month, and committee training in April. At the training weekend we learnt about the aspects of the various key roles, and how to fulfi ll them effi ciently. We also learnt about effective public speaking; a handy tool, especially in the months leading up to bandanna week later in the year. While the committee was at the training weekend, Kylie and Rhiannon were chosen to go the V8 Supercars. Here they got VIP entry, which included Pit pass, a chance to meet the crew and sit in the cars, and also lunch with the team! Thank you to James Gilbert of Solutionists, and everyone at the Brad Jones Racing Garage for the opportunity. At the beginning of May a group of 10 older members went to “GASTROCOMIQUE”. This was a luncheon at the Heritage Hotel, 25 tables with 10 people at each table. A table cost $650. It was all part of the NZ International Comedy Festival, hosted at the Heritage Auckland, and MC-ed by Jeremy Corbett. The group was treated to a hilarious debate over “Laughter is the best Medicine” whilst enjoying a very nice lunch. This was a fundraising event for CanTeen. Ayla Blake gave a speech about CanTeen, and then a few items, including a bandanna signed by Peter Jackson, were auctioned off. Thanks go to Leanne and Angela for their efforts. Coming up we have a few events planned already, with more still being decided upon. These include Mountain Biking, Ice Skating, a Classic Car Rally, Waiwera hot pools and helping other community groups i.e. assisting at car club days and public speaking at schools and organisations. Several other events are in the pipe line, so keep in touch for details Aucklanders! Well that is all from me this time around. Good luck, take care, and all the best.

sam�englandAuckland President

Hey guys. How are you all? Hope this fi nds you all well and happy.Well what a shocker, I never thought I’ll leave New Zealand let alone New Zealand CanTeen, but it’s all happening. Unfortunately guys I’m moving to Perth, Western Australia, so I thought I’ll let you all know, but remember this

is NOT good bye!! Oh no, far from it.I’ll keep in touch and I’ll be coming over for visits when I can. I don’t know my details for over there yet but will let National Offi ce know when I fi nd out. Until then, you’re all welcome to keep in touch with me through email. Contact Murray or Maree in the Auckland offi ce for my email address.I’m going to miss you all so incredible much and I want to thank you all for all the amazing times I’ve had with you and CanTeen. You’re all in my heart forever. Take care and good luck for the future guys. ROCK ON!!Love always.

gena�dyer.

auckland

On Monday 11th April we took a group of over-18 year old members to Christchurch to see Jack Johnson live in concert! We left around lunchtime in the trusty minivan, driven by volunteer Susan Weggery. We stopped at

subway for lunch where everyone devoured mighty foot-longs. We then continued on to Christchurch and arrived around teatime, after several attempts and U-turns to fi nd the Adelphi motel where we were staying.

Arrival was not quite to schedule so we had to leave straight away to get tea in town on the run. After a balanced meal of Burger King we hurried on towards the Town Hall where Jack was playing. On the way up we had discussed how cool it would be if Jack Johnson met CanTeen, so after getting to the town hall we had a look around for some offi cials who were likely to invite us backstage.

Time was running out as the doors started to open when Rachel spotted a stall with two girls who she decided to ask for help. By some magical coincidence they had ‘connections’ and offered to talk to Jack’s manager to see if we might be able to meet him.

After some nervous waiting while listening to the opening acts, Rachel was given the go ahead and we were told we could go backstage to meet Jack before he went on. We waited until the girls texted Rachel to tell us all to come out to the foyer to meet the manager. The manager was keen to hear about CanTeen but asked if we had anything on us to prove who we were! We didn’t have one scrap of proof except for our puppy eyes and scars! Then Matt Truman produced his Blind Foundation card as well and the manager was pretty convinced we were the real thing.

Excitedly we ran into the backstage rooms and Jack came out to meet us! We all got to shake his hand, get a few hugs, and then we hassled him for heaps of autographs. Mereana got a special scar autograph and showed everyone she met afterwards. Some members also noticed the yummy food the musicians had been served and apparently helped themselves to it. After about 10 minutes of photos, hugs and hysteria we were politely asked to leave as Jack had a concert to perform!

We watched Jack play with the rest of the crowd and the excitement of our meeting lasted all night. Jack and crew put on an awesome show and we all thoroughly enjoyed the few hours of live music.

The next morning, after a very early start on the road, we travelled back to Dunedin to resume our non-celebrity lives. But now we have many a story to tell.

By ruth�leadbetter�and�tim�johnston

We kick started the year with Summer Camp in The Catlins where Southland and Otago CanTeeners got together for a great weekend on the coast. We had an eventful weekend with heaps

of wicked outdoor activities, the highlight for many being the walk to the Cathedral Caves, even for Gregor who braved the terrain on crutches.We should all be golf pros after our last 2 meetings, 1 held at the driving range and the other at the new indoor mini golf course. Our Monday Starbucks gatherings are a delicious highlight of the week and it’s great to see the numbers of CanTeen members attending increasing all the time. Our committee members are now looking forward to committee training in Dunedin this weekend organised by Angela. She has offered us so many amazing opportunities since her involvement with CanTeen and we in Southland are grateful for her support.

kyla�mckenzie�and�cameron�stevensSouthland CanTeen

Don’t remember me because I had cancer, this is such a small part of my life.

Remember me for my attitude, my willpower, my stubbornness, for accepting change, the way I love life, giving people advice.

If I could give you a piece of advice, it would be not to worry about what others think, live the way you want to live – self fi rst. Don’t take each day as a given. Do something that really scares you; eat food – lots of it.

Tell people how much you love them. It’s the most important thing. Nothing else matters.

The only thing I will regret if I die from cancer young – is not having kids – and not being married.

What a brilliant life.

written�by�annaMarch 22, 2005

Norelia joined Canteen in March this year while a patient at Starship Hospital. She was diagnosed with bone cancer at

the end of February in her home town of Gisborne after returning home from boarding school in Hamilton. She was born in Colombia, South America but moved to New Zealand with her sister and two brothers when she was three years old. She loved dancing especially salsa, music and hanging out with her friends. Throughout her illness and treatment she remained positive and was looking forward to going on a shopping spree made possible by the Make a Wish Foundation. Sadly she never got to buy all those clothes, makeup and jewellery as she never got

well enough and she passed away on April 17th.

otago/southland�18+Jack Johnson Concert

CanTeen Otago would like to say a special thank you to Queenstown

Rotary and everybody involved in the Melbourne Cup Event hosted by Moonlight Stables. We appreciate the cheque for $25000.00 and would like you to know this will allow us to have a Winter Camp in Queenstown later on this year and some extra activities in our area. We all benefi t from these recreational and educational events as it gives us the opportunity to be together and support each other.

philippa�ransomOtago President

thank�you!

hi�from�the�deep�south

remembrances

ANNA KATE FULLER14 July 1987 – 27 March 2005

NORELIA (NELLY) RUSHAge 15

A valued member of Auckland CanTeen who was always keen to help. Our thoughts are with her family at this diffi cult time.

ROMY VANS SINCLAIR10 June 1985 – 06 May 2005

‘ The gift I leave for you is not the gift of parting …. But the limitless creation of memories combined ’

Duchess Aroha Tichborne19th April 1989 – 21st March 2005

With love we remember…

GEMMA KATHLEEN WOOLLETT19.8.88 – 1.4.05 (aged 16 years)

The NSI Division wishes to farewell Gemma, one of its brave members.Gemma was an inspiration to many, touched so many people’s hearts and will be sadly missed by many of our members.

The name ‘Gemma’ means:She is an intelligent and caring person who is always willing to help others. Supportive and understanding in times of trouble. Placid and sincere.

All those traits were carried by Gemma, and so much more.

“Your journey on this earth may have been shortBut you have left permanent footprints in our hearts”

Lots of love, CanTeen NSI xoxo

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CanTeen thanks BPG for their generosity in printing this magazine for free.

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Co-ordinator

Murray KiddLisha Hayward

Sandie SchimanskiRegan Petkovic

Michelle Kenyon-RobertsJanet Thompson

Penny JonesKatie Hughes

Koral TappAngela IrelandMichelle Tohill

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CanTeen Branch Details