The family of two much loved Christchurch parents, who tragically passed away within a week of each other due to cancer, has expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the New Zealand public for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support
As first reported by Chris Lynch Media, Nigel Joyce was diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour, and shortly afterward, his wife, Marjan, was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which spread to her brain resulting in leptomeningeal disease.
Nigel passed away on Friday 31 May, while Marjan died last Thursday.
A combined funeral service was held on Sunday at St Andrew’s College’s Centennial Chapel.
As of Monday afternoon, $245,808 had been raised through a Give a little page.
Family friend Anj Hawkins told chrislynchmedia.com “the Joyce family would like to take this opportunity to share their immense gratitude for the outpouring of kindness and support from far and wide, that has been offered to them, and Nigel and Marjan’s beautiful girls, over the past few weeks.
“They would also like you all to know that the girls continue to be loved and cared for by their family, as they work through and move into the next phase of their lives.”
Nigel Joyce was diagnosed with a brain tumour and shortly afterwards his wife Marjan was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer.
Supplied
During the weekend Hawkins said the couple’s “love and dedication to their family were evident in everything they did.
“They both loved life and cherished their family deeply. Despite facing a rough time in the last five weeks, both Marjan and Nigel never complained. They took everything in stride and felt so loved by their family, friends, StAC, and the wider community. They remained strong, united, and resilient, showing everyone the true meaning of love and dedication. The world was a better place for having both Nigel & Marjan in it.”
“Marjan mentioned last week she felt humbled by the way people looked over them and felt their situation could have been much worse. She said she was overwhelmed that people were rallying around her – and in all of that she found peace” Hawkins said.
“She felt internally blessed for those who left messages, thinking of them and that helped them in every way from praying, to taking the girls for an afternoon, helping with dinner to every little thing big or small.
“Marjan said “we can leave this world in such good hands and one day Oriana and Emily (their daughters) will understand how amazing it is to have beautiful friendships.
“Marjan wanted to pass on how blessed they are in their hearts and they aren’t fighting anymore and they accept what has been dealt to them in life and the friendships and hearts and souls are living with us she cannot thank everyone highly enough.”
Marjan Joyce died a week after her husband Nigel.
“Marjan was a truly remarkable person who left a lasting impact on those around her. This photo (above) reminds me of Emily—she gave Emily her smile, such a beautiful soul. Her legacy will live on through her children and family and the many lives she touched with her kindness and beautiful nature.
Supplied
The Givealittle page for the family can be found here.
