Acute lymphoblastic leukemia❗Let's save Marcel❗

It is the fear of every needle prick, of another blood test, of the pain that the child remembers all too well.

It started with pain that wouldn't go away.

Just a moment earlier, Marcel was a normal six-year-old. He ran, played soccer, laughed with his brother, and argued over trifles. Then evening came, and with it, a sharp pain in his arms, so severe that no medication brought relief. A sleepless night. The morning spent in a hospital corridor.

At that time, no one had yet uttered the words that were about to be spoken. However, fear was present from the very first moment, thick and unsettling, like a shadow that refuses to go away.

Diagnosis

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A short name for a nightmare that has engulfed the entire family. Not long ago, questions were about vacations and school plans. Today, they sound completely different. Will the results allow him to stay home? Will he develop a fever? "The doctor said that the whole family is sick. And that's true," says Marcel's mother.

Hospital instead of everyday life

From July 2024, Marcel's life revolved around the ward and short passes home. After a month, a vascular port was implanted. Permanent access to veins. Constant readiness, which was necessary for the next stages of treatment. Hospital rooms became part of everyday life, and childhood began to fit into the short moments between tests. Lego, crayons, and games were the best "time killers" in hospital rooms.

Treatment without interruption

Since May 2025, Marcel has been staying at home. It sounds like a relief, but in reality it means a different kind of struggle. Although his hair is growing back and he looks better and better, he is still undergoing immunosuppression. He takes chemotherapy tablets every day. He has weekly blood tests and, depending on the results, receives additional chemotherapy once a week. If everything goes according to plan, we have a check-up at the hospital every four weeks. Marcel misses normality, kindergarten, and his friends the most...
"Mom, I want to run with the others like normal." As soon as he has more strength, he immediately wants to keep up with his older brother.

His body is working bravely beyond its capabilities... He is growing and becoming more mature and increasingly aware... Currently, blood tests remain his greatest fear. Weak veins and anesthetic creams are now a staple.

Struggle as part of everyday life

His older brother, only two years older, is under constant psychological support. At home, isolation is often enforced, especially during the infectious season. Vigilance and tension accompany every cough, dizzy spell, or simple stomach ache. Parents do not sleep peacefully; they are like a protective shield, preventing their boys from feeling afraid.

"I can't remember when we were so calm," say the boy's parents.
This does not change the fact that we appreciate the opportunity to be together at home the most—because that is the most valuable thing!

What is the battle about today?

For stability. For the possibility of treatment without fear of running out of funds. For psychological support for children who had to grow up too soon. For transportation, medication, rehabilitation, consultations, and the strength to face a peaceful tomorrow.