Maciej is suffering from ATAXIA, a dangerous and rare disease ❗️ Help is needed ❗️

My name is Maciej, and only a few years ago, I had a normal life. I worked as a driver and was active and independent. I never would have imagined that my life could change so quickly. The disease developed overnight, taking away almost all my physical abilities.

It all started with leg pain and numbness. I thought it had been caused by my sitting job, so I went to see my doctor, expecting a quick solution to my health issues. After a series of tests, however, it turned out I had progressive cerebellar ataxia, an acute, terminal neurological disease that damages the cerebellum - a part of the brain responsible for coordinating movements, balance, and speech.

It means that I am losing control over my body. The disease has affected walking (I can only move my toes), arm movement, speech, and even basic motor tasks like eating or writing, and it’s progressing… Also, I struggle with constant pain, muscle contractures, and exhaustion. I need assistance with sitting down. Standing up is impossible. The last time I was able to walk was at the end of 2025… 

Apart from that, I find it very difficult to communicate with others because of my slurred speech. Due to my uncoordinated hand movements, I cannot make gestures or hold objects properly.  

The hardest part of the disease is losing my independence and requiring support with almost every activity. The only time of the day when I feel better is in the morning. In the afternoon and evening, my condition gets worse. I’m not allowed to drive a car, and I cannot go back to work. My wife drives me to rehabilitation and doctor’s appointments. She’s the one who keeps an eye on me and helps me perform basic activities. 

I’ve been undergoing genetic tests to see if my cerebellar ataxia is hereditary, in which case my adult children might have inherited it from me… For me as a father, it's heartbreaking. Also, the speed at which the terminal disease has spread, and its consequences, are beyond my imagination! All I can do is slow down its progress… 

The only chance to maintain basic physical abilities is to undergo intense, regular rehabilitation. I also require a specialized wheelchair to facilitate moving around the house and be able to go for a stroll with my wife. For me, it’s an opportunity to finally start feeling like a normal person and to change the environment. Purchasing a specialized mattress is crucial for preventing bed sores. Also, building a driveway outside our house would enable me to go out by myself - my wife cannot carry me anymore. 

I never imagined finding myself in this situation and having to start a fundraiser. Until recently, we were able to cover all the expenses out of pocket, but due to the rising costs, we must ask you for help. From the bottom of our hearts, please donate. Every penny means the world to us and will allow me to fight to maintain dignity and what’s left of my physical abilities. Thank you for your kind gestures!