Auckland father Billy Samountry has been diagnosed with a Grade 3 astrocytoma just weeks before the birth of his twin daughters, Lyra Mae and Juniper Mira. Despite undergoing neurological symptoms including seizures and foot drop, Samountry says his focus remains on his family, stating he has “never had more to live for.”
How a Medical Diagnosis Intersected with a High-Risk Pregnancy
The diagnosis followed a year of significant medical adversity for the family. According to Samountry, the couple previously lost their daughter, Rhea, due to a rare immune condition that caused his partner Jesse’s body to attack the unborn baby. The condition was only identified following the death of the child.
During the subsequent pregnancy with the twins, Jesse underwent weekly intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusions at Auckland Hospital. Samountry reported that Jesse spent approximately eight hours every Friday receiving treatment for nearly the entire duration of the pregnancy to mitigate the risk of recurrence.
While supporting his partner, Samountry began experiencing his own health issues in September. He reported symptoms including foot drop and seizures affecting the right side of his body. Following a severe seizure while at the hospital, an MRI confirmed a Grade 3 astrocytoma in his left frontal lobe.
What Challenges Followed the Twins’ Birth?
The birth of Lyra Mae and Juniper Mira occurred two weeks after Samountry’s diagnosis. The recovery period involved multiple hospitalizations: one of the newborns required neonatal care, and Jesse suffered from serious bowel complications that necessitated an eight-day hospital stay.
Samountry noted the emotional significance of the family reuniting at home with their three-year-old son, Roman. “Watching him meet his sisters for the first time is something I’ll carry with me always,” he said. He described the process of balancing his health treatment with the needs of a toddler and two newborns as a primary motivation to remain present.
A Grade 3 astrocytoma is a brain tumour diagnosed in the left frontal lobe.
How the Community Has Responded to the Family’s Needs
Samountry, who works as a movie set builder, has received significant financial and emotional support from his professional network. Colleagues from the film industry organized a fundraising garage sale and established a Givealittle page to assist the family.
As of the most recent reports, the page has raised more than $9,000 from over 160 donors in less than a month. Samountry stated that the support has been “awesome,” noting that friends from as far back as two decades have reached out to offer assistance.
“The film crew I have had the privilege of working with didn’t just show up on set,” Samountry said in a public message. “They showed up for me and my family in a way I will never forget.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Grade 3 astrocytoma?
A Grade 3 astrocytoma is a brain tumour in the left frontal lobe.
How can people support the Samountry family?
The family has utilized a Givealittle fundraising page. Supporters have contributed over $9,000 to date.
What were the specific symptoms leading to the diagnosis?
Samountry reported experiencing neurological symptoms, specifically foot drop and seizures on the right side of his body, beginning in September of last year.
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