The family of two girls who were orphaned after their parents died of cancer just days apart have revealed how the children are coping after the double tragedy.
Oriana and Emily Joyce, aged eight and four, were left orphaned after their parents tragically died just days apart, following heartbreaking battles with the disease.
Nigel Joyce died on May 31, while his wife Marjan died on June 6. The family lived in Christchurch, New Zealand.
A fundraiser to give a little was created to help Oriana and Emily cope with life growing up without their beloved parents.
More than $287,000 has been raised so far and donations were still coming in Monday night.
Nigel Joyce (pictured) died on May 31, while his wife Marjan (pictured) died on June 6. They leave behind his two daughters Oriana and Emily (in the photo)
Family member John Joyce thanked loved ones and complete strangers for their generosity in a touching update on the online fundraiser.
“The Joyce family would like to take this opportunity to share their immense gratitude for the outpouring of kindness and support from all sides that has been offered to them and Nigel and Marjan’s beautiful girls over the past few weeks,” he wrote.
“We recognize that things are difficult for many people right now, but the generosity that has been shown is truly overwhelming.”
“We would also like everyone to know that the family continues to love and care for the girls as they get through this difficult period and move on to the next phase of our lives.”
The moving statement concluded with the words “Kia kaha”, which is a Maori phrase meaning “stay strong”.
Nigel and Marjan Joyce (pictured on their wedding day) tragically died of cancer just days apart.
Close family friend Angela Hawkins described Marjan (pictured) as having a “beautiful nature” and a “kindness that always brought out the best in everyone.”
Joyce suffered a “health crisis” on Anzac Day and was admitted to hospice care, where he was given only two weeks to live.
He had previously been diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumor, while his wife was separately told she had triple-negative breast cancer.
In a cruel twist, Joyce had finished radiation on her breast cancer and was told the disease was gone, only to suffer vision loss and seizures in May.
He was then given the devastating news that the cancer had spread to his brain and he died a few weeks later.
Close family friend Angela Hawkins described Mrs Joyce, who was Dutch, as having a “beautiful nature” and a “kindness that always brought out the best in everyone”.
A Give A Little fundraiser was organized to help Oriana and Emily cope with life without their mom and dad. In the photo, the family in happier times.
“Marjan was a truly extraordinary person who left a lasting impact on those around her,” he said.
“His legacy will live on through his children and family and the many lives he touched with his kindness and beautiful nature.”
“May Marjan and Nigel rest in peace and may their memory continue to provide comfort and inspiration to all who knew them.”
Mr Joyce was remembered for his “kind and gentle soul” as both he and his wife dedicated their lives to raising their two daughters.
“Their love and dedication to their family was evident in everything they did,” Mrs Hawkins said. Chris Lynch Media.
‘They both loved life and deeply appreciated their family. Despite going through a difficult time in the last five weeks, both Marjan and Nigel never complained.
“Her legacy will live on through her children and her family and the many lives she touched with her kindness and beautiful nature,” close family friend Angela Hawkins said of Marjan Joyce (pictured).
‘They took everything in their stride and felt very loved by their family, friends, StAC and the wider community.
‘They stayed strong, united and resilient, showing everyone the true meaning of love and dedication.
“The world was a better place for having Nigel and Marjan in it.”
He Give away a small fundraiser The page reads: ‘This page is created to support the girls and family as they navigate this heartbreaking time.
As parents, this situation strikes a chord, and when we look at the faces of our loved ones, we can only begin to imagine the pain they are enduring.’
‘Please, if you are able, donate any amount to support the Joyce family with their immediate and long-term needs. Your kindness and generosity will make a significant difference in their lives.’
