The Topp Twins have thanked everyone for their messages of support after announcing on Sunday they both have breast cancer.
A long time friend of both Jools and Lynda Topp has set up a Givealittle page to help with non-publicly funded treatments such as acupuncture and vitamins as well as general living costs to help provide the best care.
Mary Massara, who set up the Givealittle page, wrote this is an opportunity for friends and fans to show their support in a practical way. At the time of writing, more than $50,000 has been raised since the page was created four days ago.
"These two amazing women have been at the forefront of many worthwhile causes and given generously of their time and money to a range of charities. They now need our help. Please support us supporting them," Massara wrote on the Givealittle page.
"Wow we both feel so loved. Thank you all for your messages," the Topp Twins posted on their Facebook page on Sunday night.
The Topp twins are used to performing as a duo but in this battle with cancer, they will be doing it apart to protect each other.
"I don't know what's harder - having cancer or not having Jools here," Lynda told TVNZ's Sunday.
Jools was first diagnosed with breast cancer back in 2006 at the age of 48 but overcame it after her left breast was removed and weeks of gruelling chemotherapy.
However, Jools told TVNZ she began to feel unwell again last year before shortly after Lynda found out she also had breast cancer.
"So, all of a sudden, boom. In COVID, I can't be with Jools. I came out of the office at St George's Hospital and I sat in the car.
"I just burst into tears."
Lynda found out she had cancer late last year, which has seen more of their shows cancelled.
"In December 2021, Lynda was diagnosed with Grade 3 invasive breast cancer and has undergone surgery for a double mastectomy. She is currently undergoing six months of intensive chemotherapy," Massara wrote on the Givealittle page.
"This is a devastating double blow made more challenging on the back of two years of cancelled gigs due to COVID -19. Like all artists, the Topp Twins’ career disappeared overnight and this sudden loss of income is now coupled with a serious cancer diagnosis for both of them.
"2022 was to be a celebration of 40 years of the Topp Twins. They were looking forward to taking a new national show on the road and many special events were planned but now sadly are indefinitely on hold."
The Topp Twins have become Kiwi television mainstays with their show the Topp Twins, where they played characters Camp Mother, Camp Leader, Ken and Ken.
The duo's success was acknowledged in 2018 as they were made Dame Companions of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to entertainment at Government House.
