She has chosen to fundraise for Cancer Research Trust NZ, in the hopes that other Kiwi families won’t have to go through the same heartbreaking experience her family did.

Bailey was diagnosed with a rare midline carcinoma in 2016, when Steph was just 15. Because the cancer was so rare, and was one of the first cases in New Zealand, it took a long time to diagnose. 

Their family never had any clear answers. Steph remembers her parents having to do much of their own research, and advocate for Bailey, as they tried to understand an aggressive illness with limited research behind it. 

Tragically, Bailey died about five months after his diagnosis, a month after his 18th birthday. 

“It was a really, really tough time for us. Because it was so unknown, there was no research, and the pathways for proper treatment simply didn't exist in New Zealand. There was a lot of guesswork, and my poor parents spent endless hours doing their own research on how to best help Bailey. They had to do all the heavy lifting, and afterwards they felt like they didn't do enough.”

The experience had a lasting impact on Steph, and it shows why research is important for all of us. While no one expects to face cancer, any of us who do hope our medical team has access to the best knowledge and treatment options available.

Steph chose to fundraise for Cancer Research Trust New Zealand because she wanted to support work that could build understanding of rare cancers like Bailey’s.

“You never think it will happen to you until it does. Having gone through it showed me how important research is for things like this, so when they do happen, maybe the outcome won't be the same as it was for us. I know a lot of people who have gone through similar things too, so I just want to do what I can to help even – if it's just a little bit.” 

Steph wanted to do something around running because Bailey loved it. 

Completing a full marathon was something Steph had always wanted to do, so when she found out that the 2026 Queenstown Marathon fell on 14 November, the day after the tenth anniversary of Bailey’s death, the timing felt significant. She decided to tackle the long distance for the first time and run in his memory. 

Steph launched her fundraising campaign in September 2026, inviting people to follow her journey, donate if they could, or share the fundraiser with others.

Her approach to her fundraising appeal, as well as her training, is honest, personal and determined. This is not only about completing a marathon, but about doing something meaningful in Bailey’s memory and helping future families have more answers.

We are so appreciative of Steph, and everyone like her, who chooses to fundraise for Cancer Research Trust NZ and our researchers.

Steph’s fundraiser reminds us that meaningful change can begin with one person choosing to do what they can.

You can contribute to Steph’s inspiring run, or follow along her journey up to the Queenstown Marathon 2026 on 14 November, using the links below. Thank you, Steph!

Follow her journey! IG | TikTok