Help Marina Fight Glioblastoma. A Mother’s Battle

Hi, my name is Marina. I’m a 43-year-old mom of three beautiful children, and I’ve recently been diagnosed with Glioblastoma (GBM), IDH-wildtype — an aggressive and fast-growing form of brain cancer.

Glioblastoma is one of the most difficult brain tumors to treat. Being “wildtype” means my tumor does not carry a mutation that’s sometimes linked to better outcomes — which unfortunately makes the cancer even more aggressive and fast-moving. Despite this, I’m holding on to faith and doing everything I can to fight for my life and for my family.

In May 2025, I underwent a successful brain surgery to remove the tumor. I’m now in the early stages of daily radiation and chemotherapy, under the care of the incredible neuro-oncology team at Duke University. Every day is a challenge — physically, emotionally, and financially — but I’m determined to give everything I have.

Why We Need Help

Before this diagnosis, I was working and helping support our household. Since starting treatment, I’ve had to step away from work completely to focus on healing. That’s left my husband as our only source of income, while we raise our three children and try to keep our lives as stable as possible.

We’re now facing rising costs for treatment, travel to Duke, and daily living expenses, all while waiting for disability benefits, which come with a six-month delay before any assistance begins.

Faith, Family & Gratitude

This diagnosis has changed our lives in an instant — but I’m holding tightly to my faith, my family, and the hope that I will overcome this. I’m fighting every day with all the strength I have.

If you feel called to help — whether it’s through a donation, a prayer, or simply sharing this page — please know how deeply grateful we are. Your kindness is helping carry us through the hardest time of our lives.

With love and gratitude,

Marina