2025 Christmas Appeal – Bring a Little Light This Christmas – Honour Dixon 💜

This Christmas, we invite you to help honour the life and legacy of Dixon, a vibrant and courageous 9-year-old boy whose light continues to shine through the lives he touched.

Dixon lived with Dravet Syndrome, a very rare and severe form of epilepsy that affects only a handful of children in New Zealand. Despite enormous health challenges, Dixon faced life with bravery, generosity and a spirit that inspired everyone around him.

He was a charismatic, caring young soul who loved helping others. Dixon raised funds for charities close to his heart and created tiny fairy gardens in public and private spaces – leaving behind moments of magic, colour and joy for others to discover. His bold, honest and funny nature gave his family and friends memories they will treasure forever.

Sadly, Dixon passed away on 23 September 2025, but before his passing he shared a simple, powerful dream – to grow and cut his mullet alongside his best mate Jacob, raising funds for Epilepsy New Zealand (ENZ) so other families living with epilepsy could feel supported and less alone.

This Christmas, that dream lives on.

In a beautiful tribute, Jacob will cut his mullet on 19 December, joined by Dixon’s cousin Davina, (who will also donate her long hair to the Cancer Wig Charity). Although Dixon won’t be physically standing beside them, his courage and determination remain at the heart of this fundraiser.

We kindly invite you to honour Dixon’s legacy by giving what you can this Christmas.

You can show your support in two meaningful ways:

“We miss Dixon more than words can ever say, especially as Christmas gets closer,” says Dixon’s mum, Elisha. “Our home feels so much quieter without his laughter, but we are so proud of the love, kindness and light he brought into our lives. I am deeply grateful to everyone who chooses to support this fundraiser and Epilepsy New Zealand, because your kindness helps other families feel supported and less alone on their journey.”

Elisha adds, “Dixon taught us how precious time really is – to hold your loved ones a little closer, treasure every moment, and bring light to those who need it most.”

By supporting this appeal, you help carry Dixon’s light forward, bringing comfort, understanding and practical support to families navigating the daily challenges of epilepsy.

As the festive season approaches, our hearts are with Elisha and her whānau as they walk through this incredibly difficult time, and as they hold close the precious memories of Dixon’s laughter and love.

Please GIVE what you can this Christmas to make a difference.

With heartfelt thanks and aroha,

Bobbi Oliver
Fundraising & Marketing Manager

PS: Dixon’s family is also asking for support with the funeral costs if you can spare a few extra dollars you can help here – https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/dixon-loved-lost-but-never-forgotten

 

Image of Dixon

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