Former Shortland Street actor Benjamin Mitchell and his wife Kate say they have been "overwhelmed" by the support they have received after Kate was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer.
Mitchell, known to many New Zealanders for his long-running role as Dr TK Samuels on the TVNZ show, and his family confirmed his wife Kate's diagnosis through a Givealittle page set up by loved ones.
The page said Kate was "at the beginning stages of what will be a long and challenging road ahead with a diagnosis of Stage 4 ovarian cancer".
It described her as a devoted mother to the couple’s three children and someone deeply valued by those around her.
"She is determined to face this with strength, courage, and a huge amount of bravery. Kate has the biggest heart, always a warm, welcoming smile, and is always the first one to lend a hand when needed, but this time it's our turn to help her and her family wherever we can."
The fundraiser had been set up to help cover daily living costs, ongoing treatment and the possibility of overseas medical options, with supporters saying it was intended to "take the pressure off Kate and her family… giving Kate a fighter’s chance".
In a video message posted to the page, the couple thanked supporters for the response.
Benjamin said the family had been "so, so grateful" and "overwhelmed by [people’s] love and support".
Kate said she had recently begun early treatment, including vitamin C infusions, adding she had felt “a lot better” afterwards, with improvements in sleep and energy.
"It's not easy to wrap your head around. When you're used to being a mum and a wife, anything crikey, spending all this money on myself, but when it's there, I don't have to worry so much about that," she said, describing the support as "humongous".
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