Dear friends,

My name is Irina Tuchina and I am reaching out to anyone who can help my dear friends Irina Bashkirov and Sandor Varadi in a desperate time for their family. In July of last year, Sandor was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. None of us could believe it. Only 55 years old, Sandor seemed so strong and healthy. Those of you who know him have seen him work tirelessly to support his family and build a beautiful home for his loved ones. As soon as he received his diagnosis, he began aggressive treatment, determined to fight this illness. It has been a difficult journey from that point to today.

Last week, Sandor was admitted to the ICU after having difficulty breathing. We thought we might lose him, but thankfully his condition stabilized. As always, Sandor is doing everything he can to get better, but his family finds themselves in intense financial strain. In his current condition, his job offered him one option: unpaid leave. Meanwhile, his self-employed wife cannot work without leaving him when he needs her most. A two-income household has become a no-income household, right when they need the funds most.

Irina and Sandor are some of my closest friends—10 years ago, I even officiated their wedding. One of the greatest honors of knowing them has been connecting with the community of incredible people they built around them. I ask that community now to support these two people who have never hesitated to support us. Every donation, big or small, is another moment that Sandor and Irina can focus on the strenuous work of battling cancer and the immense love they have for each other instead of medical bills and mortgage payments. Truly, every penny counts.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your help!