Wigging it… from left, Ngāhinapōuri pupils Jim Timbrell, Cooper Smyth, Declan Van Dongen, Fionnlagh Adams, Soren Ward, Emersyn Leighton, Milo Bunker, Daisy Rushbrook (standing) and Gabrielle Hack.
Youngsters at Ngāhinapōuri School wigged up last week to support a cancer society appeal – and one of their own.
Ngahinapouri School
The pupils came to school in wacky wigs and hair styles and carrying a gold coin donation. The school also supported Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with donations from the community.
The society’s Wig Wednesday has raised $1.5 million since it started a decade ago – and the school assembled for a “family photo” to mark the latest one, principal Mark Harrop aid.
Ngāhinapōuri pupil Fionnlagh Adams was four when she was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma, an aggressive brain tumour.
The treatment was lifesaving, but she continues to face neurological challenges.
“Wig Wednesday is such a fun way for kids and schools to show they care – and for families like ours, that support means the world,” mum Stacey said.
“Seeing Ngāhinapōuri School rally around Finn and our family is really special. It shows her that she’s not alone, and it reminds us of the strength of our community.”
The Child Cancer Foundation had been “there for us from the very beginning”. From practical help, like fuel and food vouchers during long hospital stays, to emotional support when things felt overwhelming – “they’ve been a constant for our family”.
She said every day brought its own obstacles, but Fionnlagh continued to amaze with her courage and spirit.
Wigging it… from left, Ngāhinapōuri pupils Jim Timbrell, Cooper Smyth, Declan Van Dongen, Fionnlagh Adams, Soren Ward, Emersyn Leighton, Milo Bunker, Daisy Rushbrook (standing) and Gabrielle Hack.
