My stage 4 lymphoma treatment

Dear friends, family and other supporters,

I am appealing to you for support as I am going through serious illness and extensive medical treatment.

While living and working in Tanzania in the beginning of 2023, I started experiencing many strange health problems with increasing tendency. I had high fevers, dislocated joints, nerve spasms and periods with unbearable pain. Unfortunately, the real underlying issue was not discovered and I received several wrong diagnoses and treatments. I was encouraged to seek medical attention abroad and in November 2023 I travelled to Amsterdam for another opinion. Soon after I was hospitalized in intensive care and diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma (DLBCL). My condition was life threatening and I was lucky to get the right treatment just in time.

My chemotherapy treatments consist of R-CHOP, high-dose methotrexate, blood and platelet transfusions. The lymphoma has spread to several vital organs, bones and my nervous system. It has broken one of my collarbones and I may need orthopedic surgery after chemotherapy. There is a chance of relapse and a long period of physical rehabilitation is needed before I can return to my work routines.

The good news is that, so far, I am responding well to treatment and there have been significant improvements in my condition. The healthcare system and lymphoma treatment in the Netherlands is world class. The bad news is that I am unable to afford treatment for the required duration.

I have a medical insurance that covers some but not all of my medical expenses. The treatment is set to last at least another 8 months, not including rehabilitation, and I am unable to work and provide for myself in this period. The expenses involved with cost of living, transportation, medical supervision, physical therapy etc. are out of my budget.

If it is comfortably within your means to assist me financially I would be grateful. With your love and support I know I can recover from this illness and one day return to my meaningful work in the martial arts community. That's all I wish for ❤