Rhabdomyosarcoma❗Our 13-year-old son Bartek is fighting for his health❗

A lump on the foot

In early 2024, our son Bartek noticed a lump on his right foot. It wasn’t anything that immediately caused us concern. We thought it was just a bruise; we were sure it would go away on its own. But days passed, then weeks, and the lump still wouldn’t go away. An ultrasound and an MRI didn’t provide any answers.

However, the biopsy results were very alarming. Everything suddenly moved very quickly. We ended up at Przylądek Nadziei in Wrocław, where numerous tests were conducted. The tension grew by the minute, and finally the diagnosis came—one that brought the whole world to a standstill: rhabdomyosarcoma.

Treatment

The doctors didn’t hesitate; the decision was made quickly: chemotherapy. We all clung to the hope that Bartek’s body would fight back and win. Unfortunately, the treatment didn’t produce the expected results. In November 2024, another decision was made: amputation of the right lower leg. It’s hard to put into words what we felt at that moment. However, we had to be strong for our son.

Bartek was very brave throughout it all. After a while, he began to learn how to function again with his prosthesis. He went to physical therapy regularly. Later, he even started getting some exercise; I even remember him doing a somersault with his prosthesis. Step by step, everything started to fall into place again. We enjoyed our everyday life.

More difficult decisions

In March of this year, we received more news: a relapse. Another surgery, followed by chemotherapy. The doctors are also considering radiation therapy; it all depends on how our son’s body responds to the treatment. Today, Bartek is in the hospital. Every day is another battle—a difficult one that requires strength.

The extent of the support

As parents, we’re trying to balance work with spending time with our son in the hospital. Every moment we spend together is incredibly precious to us. We hold hands, talk, and laugh. We’re doing the best we can. And through it all, there’s Nadia, Bartek’s older sister. She’s right there with us, bringing so much warmth and calm. She gives us all a lot of strength.

Moments of joy

Before the pandemic brought our world to a standstill once again, Bartuś was always on the go. He loved his bike more than anything. Every ride he took brought him great joy. He was very happy back then. When things calmed down at home, he loved to escape into the world of video games with his friends.

We need your support

These days, every day of Bartek’s life is about treatment. We’re doing everything in our power to support our son in his fight. We’re trying to provide him with everything he needs, but it’s a very difficult and bumpy road. That’s why we’re asking with all our hearts for help for our son—for support that will allow us to take the next steps in his treatment.

Today, there’s only one thing that matters: our child’s health.