Edgar Weston is fighting a battle for his life, but he is not fighting it alone.

Mr. Ed, as he is known to his students, has had a colossal impact on the lives of thousands of young people during his 24 years as an English Teacher at Otumoetai College.

Now past students, their families and Ed's colleagues have had the opportunity to show Ed how much he means to them as he fights an aggressive form of cancer.

In January 2018, Ed was diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma - a non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.

Forced by ill-health into an early retirement from the job he loved, Ed was informed around September that his life expectancy would probably not extend much beyond Christmas.

Ed's doctors then told him that the only alternative treatment left available was a non-funded drug called Ibutrinib, however, this would come at the cost of $7500 per month.

After considering the options, Ed, his wife Joanne and their daughter Alex, made the decision that Ed would commence treatment.

They began in early November, and it appears that the treatment with Ibutrinib has improved Ed's condition and chances.

To ensure he can continue to fund his treatment, Ed's close friends and colleague set up a Givealittle page for him.

Donations from past and present students, their families, Ed's colleagues and friends immediately started pouring in.

Ed says he has been blown away by the response.

'It is humbling in the extreme.”

Within hours of the page going live, the amount gifted had reached $9000 and continued to rise to over $20,000 within the first few days.

Ed says became quite emotional at this.

'I couldn't really believe what had been said and didn't realise the impact I had had on so many lives in so many ways.

'Many of the donations have been from my past students and from colleagues and parents all of whom are generous not just in their giving but in what they have written about me.”

The comments made along with the donations show what a tremendous impact Ed has had on the Otumoetai community during his time at the College.

One of Ed's close colleagues wrote that Ed is a teacher with a heart of gold.

'He looks for the light in all of his students and nourishes it. He has a special ability to reach those students who need it most, and has made a positive difference to so, so many students!”

A past student of Ed's has also shared what he means to them

'I am forever grateful for having a teacher who showed heart and passion for all.”

Now the truly valued friend, colleague and teacher will be able to afford the medical care that he needs.

To donate, please go to https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/ed-weston-teacher-poet-artist-mentor-chef