25 years old and a dramatic diagnosis❗Karolina is battling Hodgkin's lymphoma❗

The body sent signals for a long time

The first symptom was persistent itching of the skin, which appeared in January 2025. Over time, it was joined by a cough, gradual weight loss, night sweats, and increasing weakness. Karolina's body was becoming less and less able to fight off infections, her fatigue did not subside despite rest, and even the simplest activities began to cause shortness of breath. Enlarging lymph nodes raised concerns that the cause might be much more serious than initially thought. It was a slow but consistent process of the body crying out for help, although for a long time it was unclear what she would have to face.

The diagnosis changed everything.

In September, a surgical biopsy was performed at the Oncology Center in Bydgoszcz. The result left no doubt. Hodgkin's lymphoma in advanced stage IVXB, with bulky masses in the mediastinum and left lung, involvement of lymph nodes on both sides of the diaphragm, and infiltration of the lungs and bone marrow.

It was not a single change that could be treated and then forgotten about. The disease turned out to be widespread, aggressive, affecting almost the entire body and requiring immediate decisions.

Treatment takes away your strength

Chemotherapy began on October 23, 2025. Since then, Karolina has been going to the ward every three weeks, where she spends several days, sometimes longer. She has undergone four cycles so far, and on January 19, she will undergo her fifth. The number of subsequent cycles has not yet been determined.

The body reacts, but each cycle leaves an increasingly visible mark. Weakness, dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness have become everyday occurrences. Stronger medications cause pain and a feeling of pressure in the veins. Added to this are bone and joint pain, insomnia, appetite fluctuations, constant fatigue, and susceptibility to infections. Hair has fallen out completely, veins are irritated from numerous injections, concentration disorders, so-called brain fog, intestinal problems, and taste changes appear.

Karolina has already undergoneCT scans showing numerous scattered lesions and one PET scan. She is waiting for more, knowing that they will determine the further course of treatment.

Motherhood in the shadow of illness

Karolina lives in her family home. She is the mother of a two-year-old girl who is too young to understand why her mother disappears for a few days every few weeks, returns tired and weak, and does not always have the strength to get out of bed.

The physical work she did as a pastry chef has become impossible. Standing for long hours and lifting heavy loads are now beyond her capabilities. Her inability to perform this work puts her at risk of losing her job, which would mean a significant reduction in income. Her family helps as much as they can, but everyday life with an illness and a small child constantly puts everyone to the test.

The most difficult thing is going to the hospital. Being separated from my daughter and loved ones, knowing the pain that is yet to come, and the recurring unanswered questions—how long will it last, how much effort will it take, and will I have enough strength?

Everyday life subject to restrictions

Every day is different. Sometimes Karolina feels well enough to do something on her own, only to find herself unable to get out of bed a moment later. She cannot carry anything and needs help with even the simplest tasks. Her entire life is subordinated to her body, which has become unpredictable and requires constant attention.

Please help

Karolina's treatment continues. Despite enormous support from her family , it is becoming more difficult with each passing month. Costs are rising, while earning potential has almost completely disappeared.

This fundraiser is a request for support for a young woman who, at the age of 25, was forced to fight for her life and for the opportunity to be a mother present in her child's life. This help will allow her to focus on her treatment instead of constantly worrying about whether she will have enough money for her next trip to the hospital, medication, and tests.