Foot Maxim

When life takes an unexpected turn: the story of 17-year-old Maxim's battle with sarcoma.

"Dear friends, I am writing this letter with a heavy heart. My son, Maxim, has always been the strongest, smartest, and most talented person in my life. He had such big plans and dreams for the future, and now every day is a struggle to fight cancer and save his life," says Maxim's mother.

Maxim was one of those rare teenagers whose life seemed to be filled with endless happy moments. After graduating with honours from school in Petropavlovsk, he proudly enrolled in university. His eyes sparkled with excitement for a new life, filled with dreams of a career, friendships, and love. A candidate for the title of Master of Sports in volleyball, a dedicated student, and a caring son—he embodied energy and optimism.

Every Sunday, the family gathered for a special "family evening." They would cook a delicious dinner together, with Dad in charge of his signature pancakes, Mom preparing fragrant drinks, and Maxim taking on the main course. He loved experimenting in the kitchen, creating different recipes such as pasta with unique sauces and chicken with pineapple. After cooking, they would sit down together at a large table, sharing stories about their week. This was a wonderful family tradition.

Maxim and his family's peaceful world was shattered in an instant. 

Just one week into university, a routine medical examination turned everything upside down. Doctors discovered a tumour in the pleural cavity, leading to urgent surgery and a devastating diagnosis: Ewing's sarcoma, an aggressive malignant tumour. This is not just cancer; it is a relentless killer that strikes swiftly, damaging the body at a terrifying pace. The statistics are unforgiving. 

Ewing's sarcoma does not allow for mistakes and offers no second chances. The five-year survival rate after a recurrence is only 10%. 

Despite these challenges, the family refused to give up. They fought for every opportunity to save Maxim, knowing that any delay could be fatal. This led them to Israel, where the odds of recovery are improved due to advanced diagnostic methods, innovative treatment protocols, a personalised approach, and highly skilled specialists.

Maxim’s life took a drastic turn after receiving a serious diagnosis, leading to a gruelling series of hospital procedures, IV treatments, and a daily struggle for survival. Instead of attending university lectures, he found himself in hospital wards. Rather than participating in sports training, he was fighting for his life. Yet, despite the circumstances, Maxim has not lost his optimism. He continues to support his parents, finds the strength to smile, and holds onto his belief in recovery.

"We have endured surgeries, pain, and fear. Maxim shows incredible strength of spirit, but even his optimism can sometimes waver. Please help us raise funds for his treatment! Every bit of assistance you provide gives my son another chance to return to normal life, to continue his studies, to be with his friends, and to pursue his dreams that have only begun to materialise," says Maxim's mother.

The treatment is lengthy, complex, and extremely costly, but it is the only option that offers genuine hope for his future.

“Not long ago, my life was filled with bright colours and big plans. I had just started university, was playing my favourite sport—volleyball—and had grand aspirations for the future. But fate had different plans...

Now, I find myself in a situation where I cannot cope on my own. My dad had to sell his work car to pay for my initial treatment. My mom has dedicated herself entirely to caring for me, giving up all her other activities. Our family has done everything possible, but we are desperately short of funds to continue my treatment. Receiving treatment in Israel is my chance to beat this disease. I am in a position where I truly need help. I am scared, but I am not giving up. Every day, I fight, and this battle is not easy for me.”, Maksim.

Let’s give Maxim a chance at life together! We believe that together we can help him defeat this disease. As Peter Parker, Maxim's favourite character since childhood, said: "With great power comes great responsibility." Now, the responsibility for Maxim's life lies with all of us!