When our son, Bartek, was only 9 months old, our lives changed forever. While visiting his grandparents, he experienced his first seizure. Overwhelmed by panic, we called for an ambulance. Bartek was taken to the hospital, where he had another seizure. This marked the start of a journey we never anticipated — one that continues to this day.
The initial diagnosis was epilepsy, but subsequent tests did not confirm it definitively. Despite being on medication, the seizures persisted. Bartek’s small body continued to convulse, and we realized that more needed to be done. This moment initiated a long, arduous struggle for Bartek’s health and our family.
💔 More Than Just Epilepsy
Bartek’s health issues extend beyond epilepsy. As he grew, we began to notice additional challenges that complicated his life. The medications intended to control his seizures also led to muscle weakness, hindering his ability to move and play like other children his age.
He was diagnosed with clubfoot, a condition that misaligns his feet and makes walking difficult. Additionally, Bartek experiences impaired motor coordination, which affects his balance. His speech is also impacted, complicating communication.
Bartek’s life is challenging. He needs intensive rehabilitation and the assistance of various specialists, including a neurologist, ophthalmologist, and speech therapist. These treatments are crucial for his daily functioning, but the support from the National Health Fund (NFZ) is insufficient. The financial burden is overwhelming, and without additional help, we cannot provide him with the necessary treatment and equipment.
💡 What Bartek Needs
Bartek’s condition demands constant care and attention. Some of the essential needs for his ongoing development include:
- Specialized medical equipment: Items such as orthopedic shoes, therapy aids, and prescription glasses are crucial for Bartek’s daily activities.
- Ongoing rehabilitation: He requires specialized therapies to enhance his coordination, motor skills, and speech. These therapies are vital but costly, and we cannot afford them alone.
- Further diagnostics: Beyond epilepsy, Bartek needs metabolic tests and additional assessments to fully understand his condition and determine the best treatment.
- Support from specialists: Bartek’s health necessitates regular consultations with multiple doctors, which are essential yet expensive.
The total cost of these needs is far beyond our family’s means. Our financial situation is stretched thin, and each day feels like a battle.
🙏 A Family’s Plea for Help
As parents, it breaks our hearts to witness our son facing these difficulties. Every day, Bartek shows remarkable courage, but the path ahead is uncertain and fraught with challenges. We understand that without the right treatment, rehabilitation, and equipment, Bartek’s progress will be severely limited.
That’s why we are reaching out to you — seeking your assistance to provide Bartek with the care and support he needs to thrive. We require your help to cover the costs of:
- Rehabilitation and therapies
- Medical consultations and diagnostics
- Specialized equipment
Every donation, no matter how small, significantly impacts Bartek’s life. With your support, we can continue the treatments that will enhance his motor skills, speech, and overall quality of life. Your contribution is not merely a donation — it’s an investment in Bartek’s future, giving him a better chance to live life to the fullest.
💙 Thank You for Your Support
We cannot express how profoundly grateful we are to everyone who has supported us thus far. The love, compassion, and generosity of those who have contributed to Bartek’s care have provided us with hope when we had none.
Now, we are asking for your help once more. Together, we can ensure that Bartek continues to receive the care he requires. Your support means more to us than words can convey.
Please consider donating, sharing Bartek’s story, or offering words of encouragement. Every act of kindness brings us closer to helping Bartek lead a healthier, happier life.
Thank you for being part of Bartek’s journey. Together, we can make a difference. 🙏💙
