Late prostate cancer detection leaves families grappling with enduring grief and life-altering losses, according to Shirley Hazelwood, whose husband Daniel died from the disease on December 12, 2024.
The Impact of Late-Stage Prostate Cancer on Families
Families often face prolonged emotional fallout long after a loved one passes away from advanced prostate cancer. Shirley Hazelwood noted that the absence left behind does not shrink with time; instead, relatives must learn how to live around an enduring void. Daniel Hazelwood received his diagnosis in August 2021 after a friend shared a social media post encouraging men to get tested. Medical scans revealed that an aggressive form of the cancer had already spread to his bladder, hips, and spine.
Because the disease was detected at such a late stage, medical intervention focused on slowing the progression and giving Daniel as much time as possible with his family and friends. Shirley Hazelwood shared that Daniel’s primary fear was not dying itself, but rather the prospect of losing the life he loved and leaving behind his family.
Community Action and the Rotorua Blue Walk
To honor Daniel’s memory and continue his advocacy, his eldest daughter, Leigha Hazelwood, alongside the Rotorua Sunrise Rotary Club, has organized the upcoming Blue Walk. The family-friendly event supports the Prostate Cancer Foundation during its annual Blue September awareness month. Funds raised go toward essential support services, including counselling, fitness and wellbeing programmes, partner and family support, education, advocacy, and research.
Last year’s event successfully raised about $5000. The 2025 Blue Walk takes place on September 29, starting at the Rotorua Lakefront’s Village Green at 5.30pm. Registrations open at 4.30pm with a $10 entry fee for adults and a gold coin donation for children. Participants will follow a 30-minute route passing Rotorua Hospital and returning via Eat Streat, led by a local fire engine and accompanied by a brass band.
The Push for National Screening and Early Detection
Early detection remains the most critical factor for successful treatment outcomes. Heinz Fett, who has helped organise Rotorua’s Blue Walk annually since its inception in 2016 and served alongside Daniel Hazelwood as a support group coordinator, emphasizes the urgent need for open conversations. Fett stated that the death rate for prostate cancer exceeds that of breast cancer, prompting his advocacy for a government-funded national screening programme comparable to breast cancer screening initiatives.
Despite the severity of late diagnoses, Fett noted that a diagnosis does not automatically signal the end, reinforcing that early detection is vital. Supporters unable to attend the Rotorua walk can contribute directly through the Rotorua Blue Walk fundraising page on the official Blue September website.
Did You Know?
Rotorua’s annual Blue Walk has been running since 2016, bringing the community together to raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s counselling, fitness, and family support services.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the Rotorua Blue Walk taking place?
The family-friendly walk is scheduled for September 29, with registrations opening at 4.30pm at the Rotorua Lakefront’s Village Green before the walk begins at 5.30pm.
What does the entry fee cost?
Entry is $10 for adults and a gold coin donation for children.
Where do the funds raised go?
All money raised supports the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s vital services, including research, advocacy, counselling, and family support programmes.
How can I donate if I cannot attend the event?
Donations can be made online through the Rotorua Blue Walk fundraising page on the official Blue September website.
Join the Conversation
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