Support for Ewelina — Our Dedicated Nurse, Mother, and Friend

Ewelina is a devoted nurse at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and a loving mother of two. Nearly six years ago, her life changed when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor — at the time, she was a young mother, still breastfeeding her 1-year-old while caring for her 3-year-old. To face such devastating news while nurturing two small children would have been overwhelming for anyone, but Ewelina met it with remarkable courage and grace.

She underwent brain surgery and chemotherapy, beginning her fight just as the global pandemic was unfolding. Even as she recovered, Ewelina made the extraordinary choice to decline Medicare insurance benefits for terminal illness and disability — support she was eligible to receive — because she was determined to return to nursing and continue helping others. While many were sheltering at home, she was back on the front lines, caring for patients during one of the most challenging times in modern healthcare. Her dedication, strength, and compassion truly embody the spirit of nursing.

Throughout her career, Ewelina has gone above and beyond for her patients. Her kindness and skill were recognized when she received the prestigious Daisy Award for excellence in nursing — a testament to the countless lives she has touched through her care.

Now, Ewelina faces another battle. The tumor has returned, and she is preparing for another major surgery this November. Following the surgery, she will need novel immunotherapy infusions — cutting-edge treatments that offer her the best and possibly only chance at long-term recovery. She has also been accepted into a Phase 1 clinical trial, providing a ray of hope where few options remain.

However, these treatments come with tremendous costs. The specialized therapies, clinical trial participation, travel, and ongoing medical care are financially overwhelming, even with insurance. On top of that, Ewelina will be unable to work during recovery and treatment, placing additional strain on her young family.

As her friends and co-workers, we are asking for support from the community she has served so selflessly. The funds raised will help cover medical expenses, immunotherapy infusions, clinical trial costs, travel, and the daily needs of her family while she focuses on healing.

Every contribution — no matter the size — will help lift the financial burden and give Ewelina and her loved ones hope and stability through this difficult journey.

Thank you for standing by Ewelina and showing her the same compassion she has always shown to others. She has spent her career caring for people in their most vulnerable moments — now it’s our turn to care for her.

❤️ With heartfelt gratitude,

Ewelina’s Friends and Co-workers at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania