I'm raising money for my dear friend Iwona, who is currently facing stage 4 bowel cancer (sigmoid adenocarcinoma) that has sadly spread to her liver, ovaries, uterus, omentum, peritoneum, and pelvic area.

At just 36 years old, Iwona has already endured more than most of us can imagine. She had been visiting her GP since 2021, complaining of severe constipation and painful bloating. Despite her repeated concerns, her symptoms were dismissed, and she was simply prescribed laxatives without any proper investigation or diagnostic testing. It was not until late September 2024 that Iwona was rushed to hospital with a ruptured ovarian cyst and underwent emergency surgery to remove her ovary and fallopian tube. Two weeks later, a biopsy and colonoscopy finally revealed the devastating diagnosis: bowel cancer. A month later, she underwent another major surgery — a laparoscopic resection to remove 30cm of her bowel — in hopes of slowing the spread of the disease.

Despite her strength and determination, her cancer has proven aggressive and resistant to initial chemotherapy. She is now starting a new line of treatment in an effort to prolong her life as much as possible.

Each chemotherapy session lasts 48 hours — Iwona begins the infusion at the hospital, then returns home with the treatment continuing via a portable pump for two days, after which a nurse visits her at home to disconnect it. It is a physically and emotionally intense process. She often experiences severe side effects, including extreme cold sensitivity and neuropathy in her hands and feet, which make everyday tasks even more difficult.

Iwona is in constant pain and can no longer work due to the symptoms and side effects of treatment. I hope to raise funds to support her with essential daily needs like food preparation, cleaning, and transportation. Iwona would also like to be able to afford a private oncology consultation to get a second opinion on possible treatment options, since time is so critical and her cancer continues to progress. More than that, we want to give her the chance to enjoy the time she has — to build meaningful memories, experience moments of joy, and possibly take short trips to places she’s always wanted to see. Your support, no matter how small, will help bring comfort, dignity, and light to Iwona’s life during this incredibly difficult time.

Iwona would like her story to carry an important message. If anyone is experiencing any concerning symptoms and feels ignored by a doctor, please — do not leave the appointment until you have been referred for basic diagnostic tests. From her own experience, being dismissed and not getting help when you know something is wrong is incredibly disheartening. It leaves you feeling helpless, discouraged, and alone. But please, do not walk away. If something does not feel right, be your own advocate. Push for answers, seek second opinions, and do not let any medical professional ignore your health concerns. Iwona wants her story to serve not only as a plea for support but also as a reminder to trust your body and speak up for yourself.