Whanganui MS sufferer Briar Novis fundraising for stem cell treatment in Russia

Briar Novis and her parents Ron and Cherry. The family have been blown away by donations tipping them over the halfway mark to get to Russia. Photo / Stuart Munro

Briar Novis is now past the halfway mark in her attempt to get the treatment she says she needs to halt progress of her multiple sclerosis.

The Whanganui woman planned to travel to Russia for radical stem cell treatment she couldn't get here - but she needed $95,000 to do it.

After being diagnosed with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis four years ago, Novis faced a dramatic decline.

About a month ago she lost the use of her legs and needs a walking frame to get around.

The family say they would be happy to get about $70,000 from fundraising because that would cover the medical costs.

Anything on top of that would help pay for accommodation and travel for Novis and her support - her partner and her mother.

Fundraising has reached about $43,000 now.

"It blows you away," Novis said.

One donation of $1000 on Novis' fundraising webpage thanked her for all the good service she had given during her time working at Victoria Ave Countdown.

Novis said she knew exactly who that was.

They still have to raise about $27,000.

"We're going to get there."

Novis' father Ron was adamant the trip had to happen now they had raised so much money.

"Gone too far now. What would we do with the money if Briar didn't go? What would happen to Briar if she didn't go? So she has to go," he said.

The family will purchase their flights and get their visa applications started in July.

There is no cut-off date for fundraising because they will pay the hospital in Moscow in instalments.

A quiz night fundraiser for Briar at Stellar on Friday, May 18 has sold out but the family hoped to have another in the next two months.

Two of Novis' old friends have also organised a Brunch for Briar, at Laird Park Bowling Club on Sunday, May 20 at 10.30am.

There will be a full cooked and a continental breakfast.

Tickets for the brunch are $25 and can be bought from Annette Cox on 027 251 9302.