SUPPORT JUSTYNA'S ROAD TO RECOVERY
Help bring Justyna's family to Iowa for her surgery.
Justyna is a candidate for surgery! Watch the video and read her most recent update below for more details on this exciting news.
If you would like to make a donation to help with the costs of last minute flights for her mother and brother to fly from Poland and be with her during surgery and recovery, please do so below.
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An update from Justyna.
November, 14, 2025
I am still in awe. Every morning I wake up and have to re-confirm that this is my reality. To go from the worst day of my life six months ago to the absolute best day of my life this past Monday feels like closing a chapter I never wished to live through, one I would never wish on anyone.
And yet here I am, sharing the best news I could have hoped for.
I have officially become a candidate for surgery.
The surgery is scheduled for November 26th at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Rochester. It will be very invasive with a year-long recovery – I will lose my left kidney, potentially half of my pancreas, my spleen, some of my intestines… but I couldn’t be more grateful.
Without surgery, my life expectancy was two years. Now I can look forward to five years and beyond, especially with the research that continues to evolve for my rare cancer.
Adrenocortical carcinoma affects one in 1 million people; only 30% of cases respond to chemotherapy and it’s notoriously resistant to any type of therapy. The fact that my tumor shrank is nothing short of extraordinary. Part of my tumor will be transferred to Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville to participate in a research study on new cellular therapies for this cancer, a chance to help future patients as well.
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With the intensity of the surgery and recovery, I am working on bringing my mother and brother here from Poland to be with me during the event and for some time after.
Technology has helped us stay connected and in communication throughout these past months, but as you all know, there is nothing quite like the comfort of having your family close during the difficult moments in life.
It is humbling to ask once again for assistance, but if you feel inclined to contribute to the costs of their flights (now being purchased last minute and near the holiday weekend) it would be extremely helpful.
I truly believe that this community's love and support helped carry me to this moment. I cannot thank you enough. I will be forever grateful.
Justyna
