Some of you may be aware that Jeff Shrimpton (Northern Branch President and Auckland Local Committee member) recently had an accident and banged his head. As a result of this he underwent a CT scan.

Unfortunately, the CT scan has shown up cancer in his Lymph nodes.

He has two treatment options. One is available through the public health system and consists of radiation therapy and Chemotherapy. This also comes with some pretty undesirable long term side effects.

The second option is only available privately and comes at a substantial cost. This option does increase his chances of a positive outcome by 30-40%. This is the option Jeff is going with, which he has to fund himself as he does not have health insurance. The first of 2 surgeries will happen next Monday, 5^th November.

Everyone who knows Jeff knows that Jeff is one of the first to help out and rally support when someone needs it and we know many of you will want to do something to help him and his family through this tough time.

A bank account has been set up by an Auckland member to collect money people may wish to contribute towards his medical treatment. Jeff did not ask for this to be set up but we know Jeff will be very grateful for any support we can give him.

Any donations can be made into this account 38-9015-0222774-05

The NZPFU is contributing $5000.00 to Jeff’s surgery fund.

For those that want to help out in other ways, there will possibly be other opportunities to contribute in the way of stand ins, odd jobs etc. in the future but we will cross that bridge when we come too it.

Jeff and Jan are both humbled and grateful for the support shown so far and thank you all. Please respect their wish that their plight is kept within the Fire and Emergency family.

I’m sure you will all join me in wishing Jeff all the best for a full and speedy recovery.