Brendon and Raukawa are Waka Ama stalwarts and have been around Paddling for many many years as paddlers and volunteers. Brendon and Raukawa most recently volunteered at this years Waka Ama Sprint Nationals -  Brendon does an awesome job at race starts! 

They are a typical hard working waka ama family with 4 kids, 2 of whom paddled at the nationals this year (Lana for Mareikura and Marina for TOA) 

The week after the Sprint Nationals, Brendon was diagnosed with bowel cancer and is presently off work recovering from his operation with Chemotherapy commencing next week. Two weeks ago youngest child Jacob (age 3) was diagnosed with a brain tumor. This required an urgent transfer from Wellington to Christchurch hospital to receive the best medical attention possible. 

The family have  now all relocated to Christchurch to support Jacob during his lengthy operation and recovery. Brendon's Chemo has been transferred to Christchurch and will commence there. 

Brendon's Work has kindly set up a Give-a-Little page to help the family moving forward. https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/helpthecomerfords. Anyone can contribute towards their cause. 

The Waka Ama whanau wish the Comerfords all the best in their tough battle ahead. We are all thinking of you. 

Arohanui