The loving Christchurch parents of two small girls have both died within the same week due brain cancer.

Nigel Joyce was diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour, and shortly afterward, his wife, Marjan, was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which spread to her brain resulting in leptomeningeal disease.

Nigel passed away last Friday, while Marjan died yesterday.

Nigel’s cancer ‘took a turn for the worst’ on ANZAC Day, while Marjan began experiencing vision loss and seizures a month ago when her primary cancer spread to her brain. Nigel passed away with his sister by his side.

Family friend Anj Hawkins said, “for those who knew Marjan , let us remember her for her beautiful nature and how her kindness always brought out the best in everyone. She and Nigel will now shine bright together, one big, sparkly star.

They have left behind two wonderful children, aged eight and four in whom we can see their shining spirit.”

Hawkins told chrislynchmedia.com “Marjan had a love for good food and always put on amazing spreads when entertaining, especially her afternoon teas. She always saw the good in everyone, and her gentle nature shone through to everyone she met.

“Marjan was Dutch through and through, with a quirky sense of humour and was always keen for a good chat. She loved her girls more than anything and was always honest with her advice. Her family meant everything to her. She cherished motherhood and embraced all the challenges it brought.

“Nigel, or Papa, was the best “tickle monster,” and his playful energy and caring nature touched everyone around him. Even in his last stages of life, he still asked how everyone was doing and offered his wise advice. Nothing ever bothered Nigel; he was a giver of care, kindness, and friendship. He loved the Warriors and was wholeheartedly there for his girls and Marjan.

“Their love and dedication to their family were evident in everything they did. They both loved life and cherished their family deeply. Despite facing a rough time in the last five weeks, both Marjan and Nigel never complained. They took everything in stride and felt so loved by their family, friends, StAC, and the wider community. They remained strong, united, and resilient, showing everyone the true meaning of love and dedication.

The world was a better place for having both Nigel & Marjan in it.”

“Marjan mentioned last week she felt humbled by the way people looked over them and felt their situation could have been much worse. She said she was overwhelmed that people were rallying around her – and in all of that she found peace” Hawkins said.

“She felt internally blessed for those who left messages, thinking of them and that helped them in every way from praying, to taking the girls for an afternoon, helping with dinner to every little thing big or small.

“Marjan said “we can leave this world in such good hands and one day Oriana and Emily (their daughters) will understand how amazing it is to have beautiful friendships.

“Marjan wanted to pass on how blessed they are in their hearts and they aren’t fighting anymore and they accept what has been dealt to them in life and the friendships and hearts and souls are living with us she cannot thank everyone highly enough.”

 

“Marjan was a truly remarkable person who left a lasting impact on those around her. This photo (above) reminds me of Emily—she gave Emily her smile, such a beautiful soul. Her legacy will live on through her children and family and the many lives she touched with her kindness and beautiful nature.

A Givealittle page for the family can be found here.

The money will be used to support costs for the family as the navigate through funeral arrangements, needing to take time to support the girls long term & new family arrangements to be made.

The page has raised over $92,252 as of Friday afternoon.

The family wanted to thank everyone who have donated – saying they’re incredibly grateful.

A combined funeral service will be held on Sunday 9 June, at St Andrew’s College – Centennial Chapel, starting at 1.00pm.