CARIS study - extended molecular cancer testing

In November 2022, we heard a diagnosis that turned our family's life upside down. The CT scan revealed a lesion on the left lung. We still believed that the surgery would solve the problem and that Dad would return to normal. Unfortunately, the reality turned out to be different. In January 2023, Dad underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his left lung along with the lymph nodes. The histopathology result confirmed the worst - malignant tumor.

After the surgery, he was prescribed adjuvant chemotherapy. Dad had a very bad time with the chemo, and the last infusion had to be cancelled due to his poor physical condition. The chemotherapy left some negative effects, such as neuropathy, but Dad gradually regained his strength. His passion – mushroom picking – played a huge role here. Spending time in the forest became a natural rehabilitation for him. Dad loves the forest and mushrooms – it has been his greatest passion for years, which gave him joy and motivation to live.

Just when it seemed like things were getting back on track, another, even more devastating news arrived. A routine CT scan revealed enlarged lymph nodes, which prompted the doctors to refer Dad for a PET scan. The results confirmed our worst fears – metastases to the liver and lymph nodes. The medical panel suggested palliative chemotherapy, but Dad refused, fearing renewed suffering.

We decided to consult another center. There was hope – a combination treatment of chemotherapy and immunotherapy was proposed. We believed that immunotherapy, as it was less burdensome for the body, would bring better results. Unfortunately, after three months of treatment, it turned out that there were no effects. The disease progresses and new lesions have appeared in the liver.

We didn't give up. We consulted a doctor from Israel, who indicated that there were still treatment options. However, the condition was to perform an expensive molecular test, which allows for the detection of thousands of mutations in the cancer genes and the selection of appropriate targeted treatment. This test, performed abroad, involves a huge cost – approximately EUR 8,500. For our parents, this is an amount that is beyond their financial capabilities, especially since the treatment so far and frequent trips to Poznań for immunotherapy have severely strained their budget.

Up until now, we have managed on our own – we have covered the costs of consultations in Israel and regular trips for treatment, but now we need support. Performing a molecular test is the only chance to precisely select a therapy and effectively fight the disease. Dad is still continuing chemotherapy while waiting for the test, which was recommended by the doctor in Israel, but without additional financial help we will not be able to cover the costs of further treatment.

Our family has always been very close-knit. Dad is not only our father, but also the pillar of the entire home, a stronghold of peace and support. He wants to live – for himself and his passions, but above all for us. Dad wants to be next to us, support mom, watch his grandchildren grow, and participate in their most important moments. Being present in the lives of loved ones is his most important dream, for which he fights with all his strength every day.

We are asking for support that can give Dad a chance to continue living. For us, Dad is not only a patient, but above all a wonderful person – a father, husband and grandfather. We want to do everything in our power to give him hope for the future. We thank you for all your help and kind words.

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