It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Oleg…

It all started with back pain

The pain came on suddenly. At first, it was just a slight discomfort in his lower back, which could easily be attributed to fatigue or overexertion. Oleh didn’t think much of it; he took a painkiller and went back to his daily routine.

Over the next few days, the pain didn’t go away—quite the opposite. It became more pronounced and intense. Regular painkillers proved ineffective. Oleh finally decided to make an appointment with a doctor to make sure it wasn’t anything serious.

The diagnosis comes faster than you can prepare for it

Things happened quickly at the doctor’s office, and the diagnosis came as a complete surprise: diffuse non-Hodgkin lymphoma. For a moment, the world stood still for Oleg. Just a few days earlier, everything had been normal and predictable.

Treatment does not follow a linear path

For Oleh, the past year has been like a long journey into the unknown. He underwent PET-CT scans three times, each time hoping that the results would bring him at least a little relief. Between hospital visits, Oleh underwent chemotherapy and then immunotherapy. Each of these treatments was another attempt to stop the disease.

Many complications arose during his treatment . Among other things, his body had to fight off sepsis twice. His weakness became increasingly apparent with each passing day.

Another possibility arises, but it doesn't mean there's a simple solution

Today, Oleh was referred for CAR-T therapy. This treatment could be his next chance. The treatment is scheduled to take place in Katowice, about 300 km from home. Oleh is currently awaiting a decision on his eligibility for the program.

He is currently in the hospital due to severe pain and swelling.

When everyday life becomes unstable

Oleh’s whole life changed the moment he heard the diagnosis. The illness slowly began to take control of his daily life. He was declared totally unable to work, which disrupted his sense of stability. For Oleh, it wasn’t just a piece of paper; it was the moment he had to face a new reality.

Until now, he was the family’s sole breadwinner. Due to his illness, the family has lost its only source of income. For nearly a year now, his wife has been the sole caregiver—both for him and for her parents (her father is 91 and her mother is 75). This requires her to devote all her time and energy, which prevents her from working. The family is currently dependent on assistance from the government and kind-hearted people.

The calm of the water and the power of the mountains

Before his illness, fishing was more than just a hobby for Oleh. Time seemed to slow down, sounds faded away, and the world fell into a simple, understandable whole. It was completely different on his mountain hikes, where every step required effort and concentration. During those moments spent outdoors, Oleh felt free.

The Power of Support

Now that Oleg’s life has slowed down and every moment has taken on special significance, every form of support matters greatly. Thanks to our collective commitment, there is hope for better days ahead.