A PLEA FOR HELP TO FUND MIKE'S LIFE-SAVING TREATMENT
UPDATE -
DEAR FRIENDS, FAMILY, QANTAS FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF FRIENDS
Your generosity and kind thoughts have been beyond overwhelming. Mike and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts ♥️ Thanks to all of you we now have raised enough to cover Mike’s chemo for the next 4 months, amazing!!!! We will leave this page open for now.
In December 2019, Mike received the devastating news that he had stage four terminal lung cancer. For Mike and his wife Marjorie, kids Sam and Nina, and all of Mike’s extended family and friends, this was a devastating diagnosis that left everyone reeling.
WHAT IS MIKE GOING THROUGH?
Since his initial diagnosis, the cancer spread to Mike's brain and bones. He’s endured countless rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, brain surgery, frightening seizures and ongoing pain. Mike hasn’t been able to work as he navigates various treatments, medications and appointments. The emotional and financial stress on him, albeit he hides it stoically, is taking its toll.
Despite the endless setbacks, Mike still inspires everyone around him with his optimism and humour. He refuses to give up and continues to make the most of everyday, whether its playing golf, having a laugh at Pub Club, cycling down to Coogee for a swim and spending time with family and friends.
WHY MIKE'S CANCER IS RARE
Mike's lung cancer turns out to be rare, containing three different cell mutations, which over time, build up resistance to treatment and eventually becomes ineffective. Mike’s oncologist and the team at the Bright Centre,Randwick have been amazing, tirelessly searching for the next suitable chemotherapy option.
A RAY OF HOPE
Last October, Mike's condition worsened dramatically following a severe seizure, discovering an aggressive and painful tumour in his knee. After a tough few months and facing limited treatment options, his oncologist suggested a new chemotherapy used in women with breast cancers that have similar characteristics to Mike’s tumours.
After five cycles on the new treatment, it is looking like a wonder drug! Amazingly, Mike's cancer markers have dropped significantly, and his scans show his lung and brain tumours have all shrunk!
A HEARTBREAKING OBSTACLE
But there’s a catch.
Mike’s new chemotherapy is unconventional for men with lung cancer and as a result, it is not subsidised or covered under the medical benefits scheme (PBS). It means that every three weeks, Mike and Marj must pay a whopping $10k for treatment. This is on top of all the other medical bills and life expenses that still need to be met to run a family household.
So far, Mike and Marj have paid $50k to the pharmaceutical company for the five treatments he has received, with the help from family and some incredibly generous people. Despite the great results and the potential as a long-term solution, Mike and Marj have just received the disappointing news that their appeal to the pharmaceutical company for a pricing subsidy has been unsuccessful. Hopefully they will reconsider their decision.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Mike, Marj, Nina and Sam continue to navigate the challenges of living with stage four cancer with amazing strength and positivity. Many kind friends have asked how they can help, and although Mike and Marj don’t like to ask, this is our chance to show them our love, wrap our collective arms around them and help with the financial burden they’re facing.
If you would like to help, every contribution, no matter the size, is a step towards the next round of Mike’s treatment. Your love, compassion, generosity, and kindness are so very greatly appreciated.
Keep fighting Mike. love the Folsom’s