Having a strong support system can make a world of difference for people living with cancer. That includes friends, family, and the dedicated healthcare professionals who partner with The Max Foundation.
For Marina from Kyrgyzstan, the medical team at the National Oncology Center are pillars of strength and support. She was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in 2017 and now receives diagnostic tests and medication free of charge through our program.
Marina said her team is encouraging and that her care is meticulous. They helped her find hope during her toughest times.
“Every visit to the Centre is not just a medical appointment; it’s a celebration of life and progress,” she said. “Meeting with my physicians feels like receiving a precious gift. Since 2018, I have embraced each day as if it were a holiday, finding joy in the simplest moments and cherishing the support surrounding me.”
Once during a routine checkup while Marina was nervously waiting for test results, Dr. Gavrilenko shared a story about how her laboratory team saved a rare Kyrgyzstani breed of apples from extinction. Marina said it filled the room with hope and helped calm her down.
Now, Marina said she and other patients aren’t just surviving – they’re thriving and celebrating every moment.
“On behalf of my family and our resilient group of patients, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to The Max Foundation,” she said. “Your unwavering support in providing us with life-saving drugs and test systems has been a lifeline. You have given us more than just medicine; you have given us the gift of life, hope, and the courage to dream again.”
The Max Foundation is a leading global health nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating health equity. For 27 years, Max has pioneered practical, scalable, high-quality solutions to bring life-extending treatments and patient-centered health care to more than 100,000 people living with cancer and critical illness in low- and middle-income countries. Max believes in a world where all people can access high-impact medicines, where geography is not destiny, and where everyone can strive for health with dignity and with hope.
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Three years ago I made a decision that changed my life: to donate my birthday to support the work of The Max Foundation for as long as I have birthdays to come. Ever since I have been involved with The Max Foundation, every day I am witness to the courage of people faced with cancer, the generosity of spirit of those who become patient leaders, and the dedication of healthcare providers around the world. Join me today by honoring their efforts on my birthday, July 28th.
