Help the Paoli's continue their story

Hello!

This fundraiser has been created to lend support to the Paoli family during Sam's fight for life. Late one night in November 2021, Sam experienced severe abdominal pain and was rushed to hospital, to which he anticipated he might have burst his appendix. But it was something a lot more sinister than that. After a few days, the news was delivered to Bianca & Sam that he had a very rare form of aggressive stomach cancer.

The only sign leading up-to the diagnosis was that his stomach was a little more bloated, but he wasn't concerned, as I think most people came out of lockdown with a bigger belly.

Initial investigations found that it was going to be complex to find the origin of the tumor that was growing in his stomach, but they managed to perform major surgery and discovered a 7kg tumor which was removed and immediately chemotherapy began.

The extraction of the tumor gave the doctors and Sam hope that they were tracking towards recovery, which came to a grinding halt in February of this year. Sam was days off returning to work part-time as a Tram Driver and returning to some sort of normality, but that idea was short-lived, and this was when the real battle began.

Since February, Sam has spent more time in hospital than at home with his family. He has been battling every day to keep the dream alive of watching his sons (Roderick & Daniel) grow up and spend his days laughing with and loving Bianca.

The doctors have delivered the devastating news that Sam has now exhausted all conventional forms of treatment. His body has not responded to chemotherapy as they had anticipated, and it is only causing him greater distress. At this stage, continuing with this form of treatment is not having any positive impact on his health or the tumor.

Sam's oncologist has suggested one last option, and that is Immunotherapy. However, this is extremely costly and is not covered under the PBS. Each round is $6515, and they are suggesting approximately 11 rounds of this treatment is required before the PBS will begin to cover the cost. 11 rounds of this treatment equates to approximately $70,000 and this number is completely out of their reach. They need our help. They need the support from their friends, family & the wider community. Sam’s oncologist has optimistically advised that 3 rounds could potently show some positive results

Bianca is currently on carer's leave from work, whilst caring for Sam and raising their children. Unfortunately, this income is extremely limited, and Bianca will need to return to work to help manage their financial situation.

As you can imagine, Sam & Bianca are willing to try absolutely anything to live out their lives together and give Roderick & Daniel a life with their Dad around.

Roderick is 7 years old and is a spritely, inquisitive and happy young boy. His bond with his father is unique, they are joined at the hip. They both have an unhealthy infatuation with Marvel (don't bother trying to lend them your knowledge on Marvel - they're fanatics) Their favourite past times are collecting Pop Vinyl figurines, building lego & wrestling!

It's been a testing time for Roderick, as he isn't quite aware of how unwell Sam is, but he has been so understanding and patient. The thought of having to tell Roderick he may not celebrate another Christmas with his Dad is not a conversation anyone is ready to have with him, they are desperately hoping with this treatment Sam will be around for this Christmas, and many more to follow.

Daniel is 33 and is confident, compassionate & humble. Sam always talks about how proud he is of Daniel, and his ability to confidently navigate his way to whatever goal he sets in life, with minimal guidance. Sam did a lot of his own growing up with Daniel by his side, Sam discovered the best parts of himself when he became a Dad. They share many of the same interests, but fashion is the most common interest between the two. Daniel keeps Sam up to date with his threads, and Sam keeps Daniel in check with the state of his hair (although this could be argued to be the other way around). What I'm trying to illustrate is that they're both absolute fashionista's, and will forever be proud of their ability to be the best dressed to any occasion. Daniel was born on Grand Final day 1988 when Sam's beloved Demons played the Grand Final (they lost) but Sam was the winner that day, he became a Dad.

Bianca and Sam both work for Yarra Trams. Sam has worked there for 22 years and Bianca 15 years. They started their careers at Southbank Depot which is where they met. Sam had a short stop at Essendon Depot along the way but they eventually moved over to Brunswick Depot together and settled there. They got married and purchased a property in Brunswick raising Roderick there. They are generally the first people to get behind and support those in need or to celebrate any achievements with their colleagues and friends.

If you haven't met Bianca, you've probably heard her (haha!) She's the life of the party everywhere she goes, she walks in a room and lights it up just by being there. She's the epitome of strength and would give her last dollar to someone in need. She finds a way to deal with any situation, but this one has truly tested her. These past 8 months have been nothing short of a nightmare, but as always, she is committed to supporting Sam. Bianca always fosters a strong and positive mindset. She is desperate to have her husband back to full health. She has one wish and that is to live out her life with her soulmate by her side, while continuing to give their boys the most loving, adventurous life!

You can generally find Sam surrounded by a group of people whilst he shares humorous anecdotes. His wit is sharp, and his humor is dry. He will have you in stitches even if it’s at your expense. He has an innate ability to make you feel close and always has words of wisdom to share. He has strong family morals and is an absolutely terrific Dad. Those who know Sam will tell you that losing his hair during treatment was traumatic to say the least. But he is still dedicated to dressing and showing up to the Cancer ward like he doesn't belong there.

Sam's two boys are inseparable and share an incredibly strong bond. They are holding onto hope that this treatment is going to work its magic and give them the years they deserve with their Dad. Whilst Roderick is just a bit young to understand the severity of Sam's diagnosis, he understands that he isn't well. Provided this treatment gives Sam a second chance, it may not be a conversation that Bianca ever has to have with Roderick.

We hope you find it in your heart to help us give this young family further opportunity to grow, live & make a lifetime of memories together. Every single cent counts towards Sam’s treatment, no matter how big or small.

We will keep you all posted on the journey and please keep Sam, Bianca, Daniel & Roderick in your thoughts and prayers. They truly need it.

They thank each and every one of you, from the bottom of their broken hearts.