Two parents from Ōtautahi/Christchurch have died within a week of each other after losing their battles with cancer.
"May Marjan and Nigel rest in peace, and may their memory continue to bring comfort and inspiration to all who knew them," said a Givealittle fundraiser page set up by family friend Angela Hawkins to support their two young girls.
The Joyce family had faced "incredibly tough times over the past two years", the fundraiser said.
Nigel was diagnosed with a brain tumour in recent weeks, while Marjan was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly afterwards. Nigel was put into palliative care, with doctors giving him an estimate of two weeks to live.
Meanwhile, as Marjan finished radiation treatment, she was told her breast cancer was in remission - only for it to have spread to her brain.
"This page is set up to support the girls and the family as they navigate this heart-wrenching time," the fundraiser said.
"She and Nigel will now shine bright together, one big, sparkly star.
"They have left behind two wonderful children, in whom we can see their shining spirit."
Money raised will go towards funeral costs and to support Marjan's and Nigel's girls, aged 4 and 8.
"Your contributions help keep the memory of their parents alive and aid the girls in thriving and growing in their new normal, surrounded by a caring and amazingly supportive family," the page said.
"May Marjan and Nigel rest in peace, and may their memory continue to bring comfort and inspiration to all who knew them."
