Naomi Argyle, a Christchurch mother of two, has passed away following a courageous battle with aggressive bowel cancer. She died peacefully on Monday morning, surrounded by her family and in the care of Nurse Maude hospice staff.
Naomi’s journey began in March when she was admitted to the hospital with what seemed like a minor abdominal pain.
The following day, she received a devastating diagnosis: a fast-spreading form of bowel cancer that had already affected her liver, chest, and lymph nodes. She got the news the same week she celebrated her 45th birthday.
Naomi’s former partner, Scott Ashworth contacted chrislynchmedia.com to raise awareness about the dangers of bowel cancer in younger people, sharing Naomi’s story to highlight the need for early detection. “Naomi was extraordinarily strong, spending every moment she had left focused on her family. She was absolutely selfless,” Scott said.
Christchurch woman Naomi Argyle, 45, with her daughters Nika and Naia.
The diagnosis has been especially difficult for their two young daughters. “My girls are about to go through the most traumatic experience any child can face—watching their mum go from loving life to slowly slipping away,” Scott shared.
Scott’s advocacy also pointed to a gap in the National Bowel Screening Programme, which is currently available only to those aged 60 to 74. “I know of at least 10 young women diagnosed with bowel cancer. This isn’t right—women shouldn’t have to wait until they’re 60 to be eligible for testing,” he said. According to Bowel Cancer New Zealand, over 3,300 Kiwis are diagnosed with bowel cancer each year, including around 350 people under the age of 50.
Despite the difficult prognosis, Naomi and her family made the most of their remaining time together, including a special trip to the Gold Coast to create lasting memories for their daughters. This was made possible through the support of the community, who donated through a Givealittle page.
“From the shock of her diagnosis just before her 45th birthday until this morning, Naomi faced this with grace, humour, and an inner strength that has made us incredibly proud of her,” Scott said. “Her cheeky and infectious nature touched so many, and she carried that spirit right through this challenging time.”
Naomi’s family expressed their heartfelt thanks for the support they received from friends, strangers, and supporters. “We can never thank enough the many people who have supported us over these past seven months—from the hundreds who donated on Givealittle to the friends and family who stood by us. Naomi loved you all so much, and we couldn’t have done it without you.”
As per her wishes, Naomi will be cremated in a private ceremony. Her family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Nurse Maude or the Cancer Society to honour her memory and continue the fight against this disease.
