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Help Darius Fight Bladder Cancer

$72,023 donated
Given by 959 generous donors in around 5 months

Raising funds for treatment, to help Darius kick cancer.

Christchurch, Canterbury

Our amazing friend Darius is facing an unimaginable challenge. At just 28 years old, he’s the youngest person in New Zealand to be diagnosed with bladder cancer.

Darius is a dedicated Christchurch paramedic who’s spent years helping others in their worst moments — now he needs our help. He’s about to begin intensive chemotherapy, which is publicly funded. However, to give him the best possible chance at remission, his medical team has recommended adding immunotherapy — a treatment not funded in New Zealand and carrying a considerable personal cost. This cancer has proven very aggressive invading the bladder wall and trying to spread further. Following the chemo and immunotherapy Darius will undergo major radical surgery removing multiple organs and constructing a new bladder to be his best hope at prolonged life.

Darius is a devoted partner to his fiancé Brianna and a loving dad to their beautiful 2 year old son Fraser. He’s the kind of person who shows up — at work, in life, and for his family — with heart, humour, and deep care.

Let’s rally around Darius and his whānau so they can focus on his recovery and their future together. Every donation, big or small, will go directly toward funding this vital treatment and giving Darius the best chance at beating this disease.

Thank you for your love and support.

Saxon Ross' involvement (page creator)

Colleague

Use of funds

These funds will be used towards Immunotherapy treatment

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Latest update

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Thank you so much ❤️  29 July 2025

Today Darius started his treatment, the first of many over the next three months.

Darius, Bri and Fraser have been overwhelmed by the love and support they have received from you all. They are absolutely blown away by the generosity of everyone who has donated, and thank you all so very much for your kindness.

Much love to you all,

Darius, Bri and Fraser.

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Latest donations

Damien
Damien 7 days ago
All the best sorry it couldn't be more
$20
Jared & Kelly
Jared & Kelly on 09 Nov 2025
You got this Darius, kick some ass big man.
$200
Rik & Nick
Rik & Nick on 09 Nov 2025
Thinking of you all this week xx Much love.
$250
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 06 Oct 2025
John 3:16-17
Private
Paying it Forward
Paying it Forward on 04 Oct 2025
$200

Who's involved?

Saxon Ross's avatar
Created by Saxon Ross
Brianna Simmons's avatar
Paying to a verified bank account of Brianna Simmons on behalf of Darius Shazell
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This campaign started on 21 Jul 2025 and ends on 21 Jan 2026.