Treatment funded for mortgage leader's daughter
The mortgage industry has shown its solidarity and support as Vega, a leading New Zealand advisory group, called on its community to rally behind one of their own.
Lauren Russo, the daughter of Kevin Russo, head of business growth and talent acquisition at Vega Group, is battling stage 4 melanoma.
In just two days, the family has raised the $80,000 needed for a critical, non-funded treatment.
“In just two days, thanks to the Give-a-Little page and some generous private donors, they've raised the $80,000 needed for her treatment,” the company announced on LinkedIn.
“The Russo family is deeply grateful and no longer requires further donations. Thank you all so much!”
See LinkedIn post here.
The plea for funding
According to Te Ajau Racing, which helped set up the funding page because Lauren is a team member at the organisation, Lauren received the news that her cancer had returned, and she is now fighting stage 4 melanoma that has spread to multiple areas of her body.
“One thing we all love about the racing industry is the passion we share for our horses and those who work within it, so we hope the industry and wider connections can rally behind Lauren in this time of need,” the racing organisation stated in its plea.
“This news has been heartbreaking for all of us, as Lauren is an integral part of the Te Akau team, working both in the Matamata office and with our equine friends. She brings such passion and dedication to her job, and now we are determined to stand right with her and support her through this tough challenge.”
Lauren had been working with specialists, and it was determined that her best chance for survival lies in a combined therapy treatment, the post said.
Fortunately, she is able to access funded Pembrolizumab, but the second critical drug, Ipilimumab, which is crucial for improving her chances of relapse-free survival, is not funded in New Zealand.
“The cost for four treatments is $80,000, and the treatment must begin within the next three weeks,” the plea said after it was established on Tuesday.
Outpouring of support for mate and mentor
Before various industries and communities dug deep and donated, some of Kevin’s peers reflected upon the news.
“As a father myself, I can’t imagine how difficult this is for Kevin, Vanessa and Lauren’s siblings, yet Kevin shows up to work every day with a smile and a positive can-do attitude,” said Vega Group chief executive Harry Ferreira, calling on people to donate.
Natalie Hughes, financial adviser – mortgages at Vega Group, also rallied behind her mentor Kevin Russo and his family.
“As a parent I couldn’t imagine the heartache and challenge this beautiful, kind and generous family faces. As they focus on what truly matters – her health and recovery – I am asking for your support, compassion, and solidarity,” Hughes said.
“Now, more than ever, they need the strength of community behind them. Whether it’s through prayers, positive energy, or financial contributions, every bit of support will help ease the immense strain they are under.”
With 294 donations made through the page and many more made privately, “Lauren has been incredibly humbled by the outpouring of support”, according to Vega.
