The father of two young children was recently given a prognosis of three-to-six months to live by his specialists. He and his family are hoping a Givealittle page will help raise critical funds for treatment options.
The Rolleston family – Morbey and partner Sarah Noble along with Dylan, 4, and Alyssa, 2 – found out Morbey had cancer in September last year, but it wasn’t until December they received the full diagnosis.
“Total shock” was the family’s reaction when they learned Morbey had been diagnosed with Metastatic Cecal Adenocarcinoma with Peritoneal Disease, stage four bowel cancer.
“I think we were in shock for three or four weeks,” Noble said.
At the time of the diagnosis, his specialist told Morbey his cancer was incurable, with no option for surgery, chemotherapy or radiation because of how far the cancer had spread.
However, using the funds raised, the family is trying to get as much equipment as they can to help Morbey’s treatment.
“Overseas they have cancer treatment centres, and we are trying to create one in our home, so we are buying things like infrared sauna blankets, red light therapy and ozone therapy,” Morbey said.
The equipment needed can cost thousands of dollars.
For example, for an infrared sauna blanket, which can relieve stress, help with joint pain, lower blood pressure and improve circulation, prices can range anywhere from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
“We have to make radical changes and can’t just hope,” Noble said.
So far, they have used about $20,000 of the $24,000 raised to cover extra tests and treatments that are not funded and to pay for a trip for them to return to the United Kingdom for Morbey to see his family in May.
He had also set up the Rolleston Food Truck Market, which was tracking well. Both were expected to take off in summer, but never had the opportunity.
“My career as a food truck vendor never really got a chance,” he said.
Morbey, originally from Birmingham in the UK, met Noble when she was on her OE and decided to follow her back to New Zealand in 2017, moving around the country and eventually settling in Rolleston as renters at the end of 2021.
Noble has also had to give up her job to become a full-time carer for Morbey as his condition worsens, and to look after the kids.
“Up until six weeks ago I was able to help out around the house and do the cleaning and groceries, but now I’m just too tired,” Morbey said.
“It can be mentally challenging for me not to be able to play with my kids.
While the family is receiving some support, they feel that the system has failed with them having to battle for extra care.
“When I injured my back, I got more support from ACC than I do now I have stage four cancer,” Morbey said.
“I think it should be easier for people in my position that once you’re diagnosed it starts a process of support.”
Said Noble: “It just adds stress.”
The couple said they are incredibly grateful for all the support from the local community, such as dropping off meals or mowing lawns for free.
“Every little bit helps make a difference,” Noble said.
•You can help the family via the Givealittle page - Brummie Dan’s cancer support
