Life-prolonging Drug for Mike Kusinskis

Hello Everyone! My name is Stephanie and I am Mike and Crystal's cousin. Myself and two close life long friends Melissa and Joanne have started this page to help support one of the greatest humans, and families, we've ever met.

Anyone who has ever crossed paths with Mike knows he leaves an imprint on your heart that you can't forget.

Mike (Mikey), a veteran of 10 years with the Royal Canadian Navy as a Clearance Diver in Victoria, B.C. who served his country proudly abroad and at home, has always exemplified courage, honor and integrity, and has carried these values into his life at home in Sudbury, Ontario. Mike has built a beautiful life with his wife Crystal and their two amazing children Jackson 13, and Elliana 7. Mike now owns and operates his own electrical company, Element Electrical, which is founded upon dreams of giving back to his community in meaningful ways.

In January 2023, their whole world was turned upside down. Mike, 45, was diagnosed with Stage 4A Lung Cancer(Non Smoker). His cancer is in the left lung/pleural lining and has recently spread to the spine.

Mike has been fighting with everything he has to beat this. To date, Mike has completed 6 chemotherapy treatments, 9 immunotherapy treatments and has made significant lifestyle changes to help fight this. With the recent spread of his cancer, he now requires 5 radiation treatments to his left lower lobe and spine. These treatments will be starting next week to help alleviate the constant pain he is in.

We are here today asking for everyone's help because Mike’s oncologist has recommended a medication called Capmatinib, which is his best chance to get more time. Unfortunately, it's not covered and Mike is unable to get compassionate coverage for this medication. Capmatinib will cost approximately 10k for 28 days. It is unknown how long he will need to be on this medication but we assume for approximately 12 months. Our hope is that Mike will complete his 5 rounds of radiation starting next week and we will be able to get him started on Capmatinib right after.

Mike’s oncologist has been applying repeatedly for compassionate coverage with no success. Recently Crystal brought Mike's case and situation to the NDP leader, France Gelinas, and she is also working to access this drug through the exceptional assistance program with the provincial government, but so far this has been unsuccessful.

At this time, we do not know when, or even if, he will receive coverage. We will continue to exhaust all resources and try our best to get him passionate coverage for this medication but right now we don't have time to wait and he needs to get this medication started ASAP.

We would greatly appreciate anything you are able to contribute to this fund, or if you could share it widely.

From the bottom of our hearts THANK YOU! Thank you to everyone for all the love and support. It means so much to Mike and Crystal and the rest of his family and friends.

Stephanie, Melissa, and Joanne