It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Marek…

Cancer strikes for the first time

In March 2024, Marek’s daily routine was interrupted by sudden vomiting. At first, it seemed like a temporary ailment, something harmless. When tinnitus joined the symptoms, the doctor ordered an MRI. The scan revealed the cause of his symptoms. The MRI image showed a malignant brain tumor.
In April, a biopsy was performed, which confirmed the malignant nature of the lesion and showed that the tumor was inoperable. In May, treatment began in Poznań in accordance with the established protocol, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. 

The therapy proved to be extremely taxing. Mark's body could not withstand its effects and a blood transfusion was necessary. At the same time, there was a risk of sepsis, which, thanks to the rapid response of doctors, was brought under control.

After a period of intensive treatment, it was time for a respite. That's when medical THC therapy began, conducted under the close supervision of a neurosurgeon. For several months, it seemed that the disease was receding. Marek began to return to strength, a smile appeared, and hope again dawned in his eyes. In September, the doctors announced remission. It was a moment when the whole family breathed a sigh of relief, believing that the worst was behind them.

Cancer strikes for the second time

The calm did not last long. In October 2025, follow-up tests showed that the tumor had begun to grow again. A relapse of the disease had become a reality. With it came swelling of the brain and paresis of the left side of the body. Marek lost his independence in a short time. Every daily activity, even the most obvious, now requires the help of loved ones.

Physical limitations were also joined by memory lapses, disorientation and mood swings.

The disease has begun to affect not only the body, but also the psyche. The family says the former Mark still exists, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to reach him.

Until recently, he was a man full of life. He loved cycling, running, soccer, cabarets and gardening. Always smiling, sociable and ready to help. Now his days have become quiet and hard. They require the presence and strength of those who love him most.

Strength in the family

Marek is currently at home under the care of his wife and two daughters. The women have been by his side every day since the beginning of his illness. They have visited hospitals all over Poland in search of help. Today, as the disease has taken away his dexterity, they take turns caring for him. His wife, now retired, spends her days with him, while his daughters combine work with caring for their dad.

Every day is a struggle with responsibilities, fatigue and fear for the future. There are moments when powerlessness crushes and it is difficult to find the strength to believe in tomorrow. There are also moments when that same helplessness transforms into the will to fight. This is when they remind themselves that as long as they are together, nothing is lost. They support each other, hold hands and learn to live again in a world that has changed so suddenly.

Support needed

The costs of Marek’s medical treatment and daily care are very high. A month’s worth of doctor-supervised THC therapy costs about three thousand zlotys. On top of that, there are medications, physical therapy twice a week, doctor’s visits, supplements, psychological counseling, and a specialized diet. All these expenses exceed the family’s financial means, even though they have been doing their very best for months.