Cancer still hasn't been ruled out❗Without a diagnosis and without peace of mind, this is Bartek's everyday life❗

The beginning did not cause any concern.

During the first few years, Bartek's health problems mainly concerned his ears. Recurrent inflammation, ruptured eardrums, and bilateral drainage, which he wore for two years, became part of his everyday life. He underwent eardrum fusion surgery, and with it came the hope that this part of his treatment was now a thing of the past. This belief did not last long.

The symptoms did not form a coherent picture.

In April 2023, Bartek contracted Lyme disease. Over the following months, doctors tried to suppress the disease and stabilize his condition. Problems with his leg and weakness began to affect his daily functioning.

During this time, there was also an accident outside of school. An MRI scan was necessary. The first scan was unsuccessful because Bartek was unable to lie still for long. It was only the next scan, performed in Legnica, that produced a result requiring further diagnosis.

The examination report indicated the presence of fluid in the mastoid processes of the temporal bones on both sides and a non-specific area in the upper part of the cerebellar hemisphere. From that moment on, closer observation became necessary.

Diagnostics has become part of everyday life

Bartek was referred to a neurosurgeon and then to a specialist center. Observation for malignant tumors began. An MRI scan was performed under general anesthesia, and genetic testing was carried out. Further tests confirmed the earlier abnormalities.

Currently, Bartek undergoes an MRI scan every three months. Extended immunological tests are planned in Krakow in the near future. We are still waiting for the results of genetic testing. This is a time when there is no diagnosis yet, but also no sense of security.

Vigilance has become a regular part of the day

Bartek stays at home, but his daily routine is regularly interrupted by trips to specialist centers. The uncertainty associated with the test results affects his well-being. Anxiety disorders have become an additional burden he has to deal with.

School looks different than before. Bartek receives individual tuition. His mother cannot take up employment because she has to be available every day to pick up her son from school and accompany him to his treatment. When cancer was suspected, she also had to seek psychological help herself.

Bartek's older sister also lives at home. For the whole family, this means living in a constant state of readiness, subject to test dates, consultations, and uncertainty that makes it impossible to plan anything in advance.

There are things that allow you to preserve your childhood.

Despite this situation, Bartek remains a twelve-year-old boy. He is interested in soccer and goes to see his favorite team play. He collects Hot Wheels models and LEGO bricks. These interests allow him to take a break from the tension and maintain a sense of normality.

Today, very specific things matter.

Constant diagnostics, regular trips to specialist centers, non-reimbursed medications, and rehabilitation generate costs that become increasingly difficult to bear over time.