Help Save Joseph's Life Critical Cancer Treatment

Help Save Joseph's Life: Funding Needed for Critical Cancer Treatment

Dear friends, family, and compassionate individuals,

We are reaching out to you today with a heavy heart and a plea for help. Our beloved Joseph Saranchuk, just 22 years old, has been faced with a life-altering battle against a rare and aggressive form of cancer. We are desperate to give him a fighting chance at survival, and we humbly ask for your support in this difficult time.

In February 2023, Joseph discovered a distressing lump in his abdomen. Countless visits to doctors and hospitals followed, witnessing the alarming growth of the tumour. Finally, in April, the remarkable medical team at Mount Sinai Hospital performed a gruelling 10-hour surgery to remove a massive 22-pound sarcoma. However, during the procedure, they discovered that the cancer had also spread to his abdomen wall. Joseph was diagnosed with Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor (MPNST), an exceptionally rare and formidable enemy.

The only hope for Joseph's survival lies in a revolutionary treatment known as immunotherapy, which trains the body's immune system to locate and eliminate cancer cells. Miraculously, there have been cases of individuals with the same cancer as Joseph who have successfully recovered through this treatment. A research study, originally planned to demonstrate the effectiveness of immunotherapy for this specific cancer type, unfortunately, faced cancellation due to its rarity.

Each dose of the crucial medication required for Joseph's treatment amounts to a staggering $10,000. With at least a year's worth of treatments (17 cycles) necessary, the total cost comes to an overwhelming $170,000, excluding additional expenses. Heartbreakingly, neither the government nor the pharmaceutical company has extended financial assistance. Moreover, the family's benefit plan does not cover the cost of this life-saving medication. We are left with no choice but to turn to the kindness and generosity of our community to help save Joseph's life.

As a family, we are confronted with a burden that exceeds our means, and we humbly implore your support. We fully understand that this is a substantial amount, but we genuinely believe that any contribution, regardless of its size, can make an immense difference in Joseph's fight for survival.

You may have had the pleasure of knowing Joseph as a student at Wilfred Laurier, a bright scholar and graduate of Holy Cross, as a student of St. Alfred School, or as a dedicated athlete who found joy in playing hockey, soccer, and rowing. For years, he has served as a lifeguard and embodied kindness and positivity in his interactions with others. His ultimate aspiration is to pursue a career as a first responder, bringing aid and solace to those in need. Sadly, Joseph has been forced to put his education and job on hold as he focuses on regaining his health. Every penny raised will be directed toward the essential treatments and associated costs in our unwavering pursuit of a cure for Joseph.

We are deeply grateful for any financial support you can offer during this trying time. Your contribution, no matter how small, will bring us one step closer to giving Joseph the fighting chance he so deserves. Please consider donating and keeping Joseph and our family in your thoughts and prayers. Your kindness and compassion are truly appreciated.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,

Joseph & the Saranchuk family