New Zealand Pianist Raises Funds for Cancer Treatment

Acclaimed pianist Katherine Austin has been given just six months to live — and the treatment required is not funded by the government

The family of the New Zealand pianist Katherine Austin has launched a fundraising effort to help pay for lifesaving cancer treatment. Austin has been given just six months to live, unless she undertakes a course of immunotherapy — which is not currently funded by the New Zealand government.

Towards the end of 2023, Austin was diagnosed with aggressive endometrial cancer (serous carcinoma). She was given chemotherapy, but nine months later, it was discovered that the cancer had metastasized to her lungs. The cost of the immunotherapy required to address this new development is out of reach for Austin's family, and so they have launched a Givealittle page.

You can contribute to the fundraising effort here.

One of New Zealand's leading pianists, Katherine Austin is Head of Piano Studies for the University of Waikato Conservatorium of Music. She studied at the University of Auckland, the Royal College of Music, and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Austin has appeared as soloist with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. She is also highly active as a chamber musician, and is a core member of the New Zealand Chamber Soloists.

At the time of writing, the page had garnered $49,000 NZD of the $70,698 NZD goal.

"We, her whānau (family), are devastated by this turn of events and are desperate to not lose her," wrote Austin's daughter, Elani Austin-Tennant. "We have heard success stories come from those who have previously had immunotherapy, some for whom it's cured completely."

"We want her to be able to watch her grandchildren grow up, to keep teaching and inspiring the next generation of Aotearoa pianists and delighting audiences around New Zealand (and, hopefully continuing internationally) for years to come."

"If you've taken the time to read this, thank you, and please know that if you are able to donate to us, we really will be forever grateful to you."