Former National MP and cancer survivor Nikki Kaye says her heart is with Labour MP Kiritapu Allan after her diagnosis of stage three cervical cancer.
Allan revealed on Tuesday she is entering the "fight of her life" after months of pain and abnormal bleeding.
"Last week the doctors told me and whanau it was stage 3 cervical cancer," she posted on social media.
"The 'C' word hits you like a jolt I had never experienced. My whanau and I now prepare for the fight ahead as I start treatment."
In a statement to NZME, Kaye said her heart goes out to Allan.
"Kiri is a fighter. I know lots of people will be sending their love and support from Parliament and around New Zealand. The country will get in behind her. My love to her and her family."
Kaye was diagnosed with breast cancer and, like Allan has announced she will do, took leave from her ministerial position as she underwent chemotherapy. She left Parliament in 2020.
Kaye's well wishes follow an outpouring of support from both sides of Parliament - including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern who said she was "gutted" by the news.
"As a friend and a colleague, I've been gutted by the news - the whole team has.
"But we're also so heartened by the character, the person that Kiri is."
Leader of the Opposition Judith Collins said on Twitter Allan is "very brave".
"I'm so sorry to hear that Kiri. It is very brave of you to let everyone share in this with you and your whanau. Best wishes."
