We’re here to help
people in New Zealand living with primary Brain Cancer.
Who we are
The White Matter Brain Cancer Trust was founded in 2016 with a simple aim: to enhance the lives of people diagnosed with primary brain cancer, and provide ongoing support to them and their families throughout the time of treatment.
We know that a brain cancer diagnosis comes with overwhelming challenges; physically, emotionally and financially.
Thanks to generous donations from everyday New Zealanders and local businesses we are able to fund a range of services and experiences, tailored to each individual. From trampolines in backyards and family holidays, to transport and accommodation during treatment, our goal is to help lighten the load and provide memorable experiences with loved ones.
Since 2016, we have provided over $500,000 of funding to individuals throughout New Zealand diagnosed with primary brain cancer.
Thank you Simon!
We’re incredibly proud to share that beloved broadcaster Simon Barnett competed on this season of Celebrity Treasure Island in support of the White Matter Brain Cancer Trust.
Raising funds and awareness for families living with primary brain cancer in Aotearoa is a cause deeply personal to Simon, following the loss of his wife, Jodi, in 2023.
Unfortunately, Simon’s time on the island recently came to an abrupt end – but while the show may be over for him, the challenges continue for individuals in Aoteaora facing a primary brain cancer diagnosis.
The Sobering Statistics
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More children die of brain cancer than any other disease.
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Little is known about what causes brain cancer or how to treat it.
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Brain cancer costs more per patient than any other cancer.
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More people under the age of 40 die of brain cancer than any other cancer.
May Matters 2026: Over $20,000 Raised
Every May, we invite our supporters to come together for Brain Cancer Awareness Month — a time to remember loved ones we’ve lost and to raise vital funds for those facing a diagnosis today.
This year, we were blown away by the generosity and support shown throughout the month – and we are delighted to share that together we raised more than $20,000.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this result. A special thanks to the 70+ volunteers who generously gave their time to help raise both funds and awareness, as well as the businesses that supported our fundraising efforts, including PAK'nSAVE, Bunnings Riccarton, New World, The Church Pub, Grizzly Baked Goods, Deluxe Cinemas and He Puna Taimoana.
Stay tuned for more exciting events to be announced soon.
How You Can Help
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