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A former Black Cap is appealing for help to afford costly international treatment in a bid to save his life after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Luke Woodcock, who played seven times for New Zealand and is Wellington College Cricket Club’s director of cricket, was diagnosed with the life-changingillness five weeks ago.
He underwent neurosurgery in February but still needs chemotherapy and radiotherapy because not all of the tumour was removed.
A givealittle page created by his brother, Leigh Woodcock, has been set up for the former cricketer for treatments unavailable in New Zealand, and to help with everyday financial pressures he and his family might face.
“Without these treatments he’s been given 14-18 months,” Woodcock’s brother wrote.
Former Black Cap and Wellington cricket player Luke Woodcock was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Photo / Photosport
More than $26,000 has already been raised.
The funds were to help with the everyday financial pressure “of living costs that comes with this life-changing illness, including time off work, extensive unfunded medical and treatment costs, and the daily reality of navigating what is likely to be a rough journey ahead,” his brother posted.
Cricket Wellington has asked “the wider cricket community to stand behind one of our own”.
In a social media post, Cricket Wellington described Woodcock as a Firebirds legend who had given a lot to cricket in Wellington and across New Zealand as a player, coach and mentor.
“To so many within our game, Woody has been a constant presence and a driving force, always willing to give his time and experience for the benefit of others.”
Wellington College also released a statement asking its community to rally around their staff member Woodcock.
“A valued member of the WC Sports Department, many will know Luke through his outstanding contribution to cricket and sport in Wellington - as a former New Zealand Black Cap, a long-standing figure with the Wellington Firebirds and Johnsonville Cricket Club, and part of the coaching team for the Wellington Blaze.
“Following major neurosurgery, Luke now requires extensive chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and further specialised treatments not available in New Zealand.”
Luke Woodcock had neurosurgery but still needs chemotherapy, radiotherapy and treatments not available in New Zealand. Photo / Give a Little
Woodcock made his debut for the Black Caps in a T20 international against Pakistan in December 2010 where New Zealand won by 39 runs.
His last match for the Black Caps came in an ODI loss to Zimbabwe in October 2011 in which Woodcock took two wickets.
