FAMILY, friends and work colleagues have rallied around Wellington postman Kieran McKenzie, who has been diagnosed with incurable cancer.

The 25-year-old, who has become engaged to his girlfriend Kelly, thought he was clear of cancer earlier this year following treatment.

Kieran, who became a postman two years ago, was set to start a session of radiotherapy and chemotherapy this week. But the couple have been given the ‘utterly heartbreaking and devastating news’ that Kieran’s cancer is now worse than last year.

Kelly said: “Kieran won’t be able to walk again and his response to the treatment will determine if he will be able to use his hands again, to use cutlery and his phone.

“His treatment will aim to reduce his pain and improve his mobility as much as possible, and we are trying to find somewhere to live that’s fully adapted to Kieran’s needs.

“The support from everyone and the gofundme over the past year has been unbelievable, and we ask you to share this update to continue raising funds for items needed for Kieran’s mobility, such as an electric wheelchair, house adaptations and to reduce the financial burden that this disease can cause with us both being unable to work at the moment.

“Please feel free to send messages to Kieran. However, with him struggling to use a phone he may not reply but will see them all. Thank you so much.”

Since then they have been inundated with offers of help. Maxine Price, who recently opened the Nook and Cranny Shop in Wellington town centre, is organising a raffle with the ‘live draw’ taking place at 9pm on Friday, July 31.

Maxine said: “We would love it if you could make a donation big or small and in return you will be given a number to be entered into the draw, donations to be made at The Nook and Cranny in North Street.

“We would like to take this opportunity to send our love and thoughts to Kieran, Kelly, and Debbie and Stuart at this very difficult time. Thank you all for supporting this lovely young man and his family.”

On Saturday, August 1, posties will be taking part in a static bike ride outside the sorting office in Wellington High Street.

Anyone who would like to contribute to fundraising can do so by visiting www.gofundme/f/help-kieran-through-cancer/donate page or by making a donation outside the sorting office on August 1.