Brother Fundraises for Filmmaker’s Funeral After Cancer Battle

The tragic death of a talented filmmaker has led his brother to launch a fundraising campaign to cover funeral costs and honour his memory. David Izekor, who passed away on November 12, 2025, at the age of 23, had been battling glioblastoma multiforme, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer, since he was diagnosed at 18.

John Izekor, 22, is now navigating the difficult process of arranging his brother’s funeral alone, following the death of their mother in 2022. John has set up a GoFundMe page, which has already raised nearly £9,000, as he seeks not only to cover the funeral expenses but also to organise a screening of David’s documentary, One In Two. This film chronicles David’s experiences as a teenage cancer patient and was a source of hope during his treatment.

David’s journey began in 2021 when he suffered a haemorrhagic stroke. An emergency operation revealed the presence of glioblastoma multiforme, which typically has a life expectancy of just 12 to 18 months. Despite this grim prognosis, David demonstrated remarkable resilience, undergoing two major surgeries and enduring a rigorous treatment regimen.

While pursuing a film degree at the University of Leeds, David channeled his challenges into creativity. He completed his documentary as part of his final project, a course that ultimately took five years instead of the standard three. The film premiered in August 2025 at Working Title, a respected production company where John works, inspired by his brother’s passion for filmmaking.

John recalls how David transformed after his diagnosis, stating, “He became very, very strong.” The documentary served as both a personal outlet and a means to connect with others facing similar battles. “What kept him going the whole time was just that film,” John explained, noting David’s enthusiasm for the project.

In October 2025, David’s doctors advised that further treatment was no longer effective. “That was probably the worst day of his life,” John reflected, as they had numerous plans for the future. Following this, David was placed in a hospice in Rochester, Kent, where he received end-of-life care.

John shared poignant moments from David’s final days, including a haunting last conversation. “I told him I was going to come and see him. I said: ‘Listen, I’m going to be there in two hours, OK?’ And he said to me: ‘John, I don’t think I’ll be here in two hours’.” Tragically, David succumbed to his illness shortly thereafter, but not before exhibiting a brief moment of lucidity when he hummed before his passing.

With no immediate family to assist him, John is relying on the kindness of strangers, friends, and colleagues to honour David’s legacy. “I’ve been left in a position where I’m dealing with everything by myself, and I haven’t even got to grieve,” he said. The ongoing support from donors has provided him with comfort during a profoundly challenging time.

John aims to organise a celebration of life for David, where he hopes to screen One In Two so that others can learn from his brother’s story. “He’s someone that a lot of people can learn from,” John noted, emphasising David’s wisdom and strength.

The generosity shown through the fundraiser has been a beacon of hope for John. “It has completely changed what the outcome of this situation could have been,” he stated. “It’s turned a really negative thing into quite a positive situation.”

To support John in honouring David’s memory and to contribute to the celebration of his life, donations can be made through the GoFundMe page at [https://www.gofundme.com/f/kj3yc8-david](https://www.gofundme.com/f/kj3yc8-david).