Jane said the aim was to send TA to Europe for two-three weeks, hopefully in the second week of January. So the six friends are embarking on a whirlwind fundraising effort to pay the $5000 costs for TA, her mother and Hannah Wetzel's mother to make the trip.
"We haven't been given a lot of time with her," Jane said. "We want to make what precious little time we do have with her count."
As well as being a good friend, TA has been a longtime giver herself. She is involved with numerous community organisations, as well as being an excellent student, leader, and student representative at Kaitaia College. In addition, she also won the prestigious Clifford Matthews Award, for contribution with community service, academics, culture, and sport.
TA said her doctors had said she would be fine to travel, though she would need more than one support person to deal with what could occur.
"I've stopped breathing a few times so we're looking at what options I have left," she said. "Unfortunately, the treatment hasn't gone as great as it could. Since last year, I've been through a couple of chemo treatments that haven't worked out."
Kaitaia College principal Jack Saxon has agreed the fundraising proceeds can be handled by the school and the girls are about to try every way of collection they can think of, from cake stalls to social media campaigns, such as Facebook and the Givealittle site.
"We can't do it alone," Jane said. "None of us are rich, and most of our families are struggling as it is. Although we are capable of contributing to trip costs, we believe there is no shame in asking for help.
"Any donations are invaluable, and immensely appreciated. Time is of the essence - January is pushing it as it is. We have no way of telling where TA's health is going to be next month, let alone next year.
"Essentially, our aim is to create as many memories with our friend as we can."
* To contribute to TA's trip, contact Kaitaia College reception on (09) 408 0190.
