New Zealand music legend Nathan Haines was diagnosed with cancer of the larynx in mid December 2017.

After two major operations in late December and mid January 2018 including removal of the tumour and lymph nodes in his neck, Nathan is now cancer free and is getting on with recovery, including a six week course of radio therapy which he undertook in late March.

Having to cancel all his performances indefinitely at his busiest time of year is a huge blow to the Haines family, and like many New Zealand entertainers he lives from show to show with little ongoing security.

Nathan has trouble speaking clearly as the surgery compromised his right vocal cord, and he is working through many post-surgery and radiology side effects including difficulty swallowing and aspiration (he was admitted to hospital in March for a pneumonia type lung condition). However he is still able to play, though it will many months until he is able to return to his previous form.

Nathan and his wife Jaimie appreciate the financial support they have received at this very difficult and testing time.