My name is Andrei, I am from Novopolotsk. Until 2020 I worked at Polimir and lived an ordinary life, but after August 9 I supported the peaceful protest: I participated in marches in Navapolatsk and Minsk, made satirical videos, put stickers and put up flags. I was a member of the Belarusian Independent Trade Union (BITU) until I was fired.
On November 16, 2021, officers of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the KGB broke into my house. I was detained, given several administrative arrests in a row, because of which I spent 70 days in the isolation centers of Navapolatsk and Vitsebsk. Later I was prosecuted under Article 368 part 1*, and I was forced to leave the country. 1*, and I was forced to leave Belarus with my family. Now we live in Vilnius. Here I received political asylum.
It seemed that the worst was over, but a few weeks ago I was diagnosed with cancer. Last week I had an operation and now I have to undergo a long course of chemotherapy. The treatment will take several months, during which time I will not be able to work. My wife works, but her salary is barely enough to pay the rent. We have two children: a college-age daughter and a first-grade son.
I am asking for help to support my family so that I can focus on treatment and recovery and not worry about my family's future during this difficult time. Funds are needed for the essentials: food, medications, and possibly additional costs associated with treatment. Any help will be a huge support for us.
Thank you to everyone who is willing to help or just share this story. Together we can cope!
*Article 368 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus — public insult of the President of the Republic of Belarus
How much is needed?
€3500
€1000 — medicines and medical expenses
After the surgery I will have to undergo chemotherapy. Most of the medicines will be covered by insurance, but usually such treatment involves additional expenses for medicines that are not included in the standard treatment regimens (e.g. antiemetics, painkillers, vitamins for recovery)
€800 — utilities
We rent accommodation in Vilnius. Your help will help cover utility bills for the next 3-4 months.
€1000 — food
My wife, daughter and son need nutritious food. After chemotherapy I myself will need a special diet to maintain my strength and recovery.
€700 — unforeseen expenses
Illness may entail additional unforeseen expenses: for repeated tests, doctor's consultations, transportation to medical facilities and so on.