Woman from Ogre battles advancing cancer, family seeks help for treatment
A woman from the Ogre region named Jeļena, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer with liver metastases five years ago, has seen her illness worsen this year, and her family is appealing for public support to fund treatment not covered by the state. Just over 9,000 euros of the needed 52,000-plus have been raised so far.
In 2021, Jeļena, a resident of the Ogre region, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer that had metastasized to her liver. Before that, she led an active life - working as an accountant, taking walks, cycling and traveling. Since her diagnosis, treatment has become part of her daily routine, and she was forced to give up her job. Still, after surgery and intensive treatment, she returned to her usual activities whenever her health allowed.
Illness has progressed
This year her condition worsened, as previous treatment options were exhausted. Searching for a solution, the family paid out of pocket for advanced molecular testing of the tumor in Estonia. The results helped doctors identify a therapy suited to her specific case, which a medical panel has since approved.
State does not cover the therapy
The obstacle is the high cost of the medication, since the state does not fund this therapy for Jeļena's diagnosis. Documents requesting individual drug compensation have been submitted to the National Health Service, but no decision has been made yet, and the chances of approval are considered slim. Talks with the drug manufacturer have also failed to produce results so far.
Treatment needs to begin without delay, as time is critical. Every three weeks, more than 5,200 euros are needed for medication, while the full treatment course requires over 52,000 euros in total. More than 550 people have already contributed to the fundraising campaign, which has collected about 9,400 euros so far. The family is asking the public to support Jeļena, noting that even small donations matter, as each one brings them closer to the needed amount.
