Our Story
Nau mai, haere mai
Welcome to The Sarcoma Foundation, Aotearoa – New Zealand’s Sarcoma Charity
The Sarcoma Foundation is a charity set up to support patients and whānau – families dealing with a diagnosis of sarcoma. Our aim is to provide helpful information that patients and their loved ones need at a very difficult time, and to be there throughout the cancer journey.
We also aim to advocate for improved sarcoma services in Aotearoa and to encourage research and collaboration into this rare diagnosis. Raising awareness will help people be diagnosed early and improve outcomes in sarcoma and other bone and soft tissue tumours.
Walk with a community that cares, connects, and supports you every step of the way. From clinical information to emotional support, we’re here to provide encouragement, solidarity, and the answers you need.
He waka eke noa
We’re all in this together.
Supporting New Zealand sarcoma patients and whānau
All questions and queries welcome
Whatever your story, wherever you’re at, we’re here for you
Hītōria – History
The foundation was established in 2022 by Andy Johnston, an orthopaedic oncologist who, on returning from overseas, recognised the need for a patient support website in Aotearoa.
Led by Joanna Connor, a medical oncologist, who kick-started our branding and first fundraising campaign, we were able to raise the funds to create our website. We are very thankful to those patients and clinicians who supported us in our infancy. The foundation has had wonderful support from our friends at Sarcoma UK, who have shared their knowledge and resources willingly. In particular, we would like to thank Richard Davidson, Chief Executive of Sarcoma UK.
Key Values
Manaakitanga - Support and Care
At the Sarcoma Foundation NZ Trust, we provide unwavering support, resources, and hope from diagnosis to palliative care. We are committed to patients, families, and healthcare providers by offering emotional support, sharing patient stories, and providing patient resources.
He Tautoko, He Mātauranga - Education and Advocacy
Education and advocacy are central to our mission. We provide clinical information, treatment guidelines, and training opportunities for healthcare professionals, along with educational resources for patients. We also campaign for better treatments and improved standards of care, advocating for patients’ needs and raising awareness about sarcoma.
Whanaungatanga - Community and Connection
We foster a sense of community by connecting patients, whānau, and healthcare providers. Our platform allows individuals to share their journeys and find strength in unity. We emphasise the importance of a supportive community that offers solidarity and shared experiences through patient stories and resources. Walk with a community that cares, connects, and supports you every step of the way.
Support our research
Join us in the fight against sarcoma. Whether you, your whānau, friends, or business choose to fundraise, campaign, or donate, your support drives vital research.