Hi everyone, my name is Sephora and I’m fundraising to support my colleague Kate and her family after the loss of her beloved brother, Douglas.

Douglas was 37 years old, an international student from Nigeria, who came to the UK in 2024 to pursue his Master’s degree at Sheffield Hallam University. In the middle of his studies last year, he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukaemia. He underwent treatment and was frequently in and out of hospital with complications. Even through it all, he continued trying to keep up with his studies, showing remarkable strength and determination.

Tragically, Douglas passed away unexpectedly on the 21st of January. He was found unwell and unresponsive in his room by his sister and was taken to A&E, but despite urgent medical care, he sadly passed away.

This has been a devastating loss for Kate, especially as she has recently also lost her mum in Nigeria. Kate supported Douglas throughout his time in the UK, including helping to fund his travel here and being his main support while he battled illness far from home.

We are raising money to cover Douglas’ funeral expenses here in the UK, as well as any other unexpected costs that may come up during this time. The family’s plan is to lay him to rest here, as repatriation and funeral costs in Nigeria would be far too expensive. Any support will help relieve the financial burden and allow the family to honour Douglas with dignity.

Any donation, no matter how small, will make a real difference. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page and keeping the family in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

All donations will be given directly to Kate to support Douglas’ funeral expenses and unexpected costs.