Fund to honour Helena McAlpine's legacy

Fund to honour Helena McAlpine's legacy

Helena McAlpine was determined that her battle with breast cancer would never define her nor would it be in vain.

Sadly the 37-year-old former media presenter passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday September 23 at 3.41pm surrounded by her husband, daughter, mother, sister, his family and her closest friends.

But while it is a very painful and difficult time, Helena’s loved ones are incredibly touched by the tributes and outpouring of support and sympathy.

That’s why to support her 15-year-old daughter Shannon and to give her life the celebration and send-off it deserves, The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation (NZBCF) has set up a special GiveALittle campaign for Helena’s family.

“She has the sympathy and support of so many because she gave her time selflessly to campaign for breast cancer awareness over many years. Women related to her outgoing and genuine personality and her story motivated many to go for breast checks. says The NZ Breast Cancer Foundation’s Liz Lyons. “Helena never expected or asked for payment despite her illness impacting her ability to work regularly. No request was ever a problem – Helena was always so willing to help…and wrangle in her friends too. She was our champion. So that’s why we want to give her family a helping hand and ensure she gets the farewell she deserves for her voluntary and outstanding services to women’s health.”

First diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2009, Helena also made a huge contribution to the NZBCF Pink Ribbon Street Appeal. Helena was the face of the appeal for three years, helping to raise over $2.2 million for breast cancer support, research and education programmes.

While everyone knew Helena as the centre of any occasion and the soul of the party, she is best remembered by those closest to her as a loving, supportive wife, a strong-willed mother, a loyal, generous, fun-loving friend and courageous to the absolute end.

But most of all, it’s about awesome adventures that she shared with everyone.

“There is so much I’ve done with my life - the running, the shooting, the driving, the gliding, the flying, the exploding of things. I’ve never claimed to be the world’s most responsible adult but the one thing I do know how to do is to have an awful lot of fun and to live life well,” she once said. “Once we remove the measurements of success of having a job, a house and a flash car, life really comes down to the memories and adventures you’ve had. And I’ve had so many of them.”

Helena is survived by her husband Christopher Barton and daughter Shannon. The funeral will take place at 2pm on Monday September 25 at Auckland’s St James Theatre.

To support Shannon, Chris and Helena’s UK-based family, donations can be made at: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/helena/

ENDS

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