NUT Carcinoma! This experimental drug is my husband Patryk's best chance.

Alarming symptoms of the disease

In May, my husband, Patryk, was admitted to the emergency room with a referral for immediate admission to the otolaryngology ward. He had been feeling extremely tired and weak for some time, and he had also started coughing up blood.

During a chest X-ray, doctors noticed concerning changes behind Patryk's heart. It turned out that there were two tumor masses there, and his lymph nodes were enlarged.

A difficult diagnosis

More tests began, and days filled with uncertainty followed. It wasn’t until an EUS bronchoscopy with tissue sampling was performed that we received the answer we had feared so much. The diagnosis was devastating: an extremely rare and highly aggressive form of cancer known as NUT carcinoma.

As time went on, we received more difficult news. There is no targeted treatment, and the tumor is inoperable.

The disease progresses rapidly

Since early July, Patryk has been receiving radiation therapy at the lowest possible dose because the tumor is invading his heart. We commuted to the hospital every day. It was very difficult because my husband was having increasing trouble walking and breathing. He couldn’t stay in the ward—first because there were no beds available, and later because of a rotavirus outbreak at the hospital.

Unfortunately, further tests showed how quickly the disease is progressing. In just one month, two tumors had merged into a single mass the size of a handball. The tumor is putting significant pressure on the heart, hindering its function and preventing the left lung from expanding. A large amount of fluid has also accumulated in the left pleural cavity.

Everyday Life

Patryk has been in the oncology ward since July 6. Every day brings more tests and new challenges.

The latest test results showed a deterioration in liver function and developing inflammation, so the doctors started him on an intravenous antibiotic. Blood tests will be repeated regularly to monitor his condition.

Pleural fluid is accumulating rapidly, and subsequent attempts at a thoracentesis have failed; the tumor is preventing safe access. Patryk will now be transferred to another hospital to have a drain inserted, and then he will return to the oncology ward to continue his treatment.

An experimental treatment offers hope

Despite everything, we haven’t stopped searching. We’re currently consulting with a professor at the Early-Phase Research Center in Gdańsk. An opportunity has arisen to import a special, experimental drug from France. We know it doesn’t offer any guarantees, but we’re grasping at every possibility that might help Patryk.

Even before he got sick, Patryk was full of energy. He loved going to concerts by his favorite bands, meeting new people, and enjoying every moment. Today, our daily life looks completely different. Every day is filled with hospital visits, tests, and the fight against an illness that leaves us no time.

Help is urgently needed

Right now, time is our most precious resource. The tumor is growing very quickly.

I wholeheartedly ask for your support for my husband, Patryk, in this incredibly difficult battle. Every bit of help, every share, and every donation brings us closer to new treatment options and gives us hope that Patryk will recover.