A mother's "roller coaster ride to hell" is looking a little brighter these days, with her son, Lucian, now in remission after a three-and-a-half year battle with ALL leukaemia.
Diagnosed at 15 months, he has undergone more than 2000 procedures - his courage beads stretch more than 20m and are heavy with the weight of mum Nikki Roebuck's worry.
At 7 years old, he's now running around, chasing his kid brother - confidently showing off his "mullet" - which hasn't been cut since it began growing back after chemotherapy.
This year, he was named a regional ambassador for the Child Cancer Foundation's Hawke's Bay branch.
"He's pretty excited about it, it makes him feel cool getting to do these things other kids don't have the opportunity to do," Ms Roebuck said.
He was excited to meet Magpies player Mason Emerson, and Mr Austin yesterday for a photoshoot and to be part of the garden creation project.
Three Kiwi children are diagnosed with cancer every week with the foundation helping more than 500 families throughout the country.
"One of the things that got me through was the support and ears from the Cancer Foundation, who said, 'just come have a cuppa'," Ms Roebuck said.
As a stand-alone charity, which does not receive direct funding from the government, it relies on generosity to continue its work.
The Bostock New Zealand Edible Garden Show is a free event for everyone from seasoned gardeners to complete novices, enthusiastic cooks, lifestylers, families, young people and anyone looking for a healthier way of living.
It covers four key elements - food, gardening, animals and landscaping. There will be a range of great entertainment as well as educational workshops, presentations, competitions and the opportunity to mix and mingle with experts.
Mr Austin said he did not hesitate when approached to be part of the initiative.
"These kids are the brave ones among us and it was an easy decision to be a part of this and highlight the good work being done by the Child Cancer Foundation."
-For more information, visit:
nzediblegarden.co.nz