Two little girls were tragically orphaned after their parents died just days apart following heartbreaking battles with cancer.
Nigel Joyce died on May 31, while his wife Marjan died on June 6, according to a fundraising Created for the Christchurch family in New Zealand.
In just the last two years, Mr Joyce was diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour, while his wife was 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 three weeks ago.
He was then given the devastating news that the cancer had spread to his brain and he died shortly after.
The couple leaves behind their two daughters Oriana and Emily, aged eight and four.
Nigel Joyce died on May 31, while his wife Marjan died on June 6. They leave behind their two daughters Oriana and Emily
Joyce suffered a “health crisis” on Anzac Day and was admitted to hospice care, where he was given only two weeks to live.
TO Give some fundraising It has now been set up to help the two girls, and a joint funeral for their parents will be held at St Andrew’s College in Christchurch on Sunday.
A close family friend, Angela Hawkins, described Joyce, who was Dutch, as having a “beautiful nature” and a “kindness that always brought out the best in everyone.”
“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.”
Close family friend Angela Hawkins described Mrs Joyce (pictured) as having a “beautiful nature” and a “kindness that always brought out the best in everyone”.
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.
‘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.”
So far, the fundraiser has attracted donations of more than $120,000.