Emergency Gastric Cancer

Dear Friends,

            There are times when we have to overcome very difficult obstacles, too difficult to go through by ourselves, and we need to ask for help. Our family is fundraising on behalf of my father, Mantas Stankevicius (Stan). 

             He is the best dad to my sister and I, a loving husband to my mom, and an amazing son, brother, and uncle. My dad is one of the most friendly and optimistic people you will ever meet. You would never think that such a hardworking and charismatic person would have to go through something so horrible. 

            My dad has a good heart and those who know him can wholeheartedly agree. He has always believed in giving back. He is a proud donor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and contributes to the church.

            My father is only 42 years old. My younger sister and I have always had our parents by our side. My heart aches to imagine life without either of them. My dad is our pillar and always has been. Without him, that pillar that has helped us through hard times will no longer be near. Who will keep us together? Who will smile and tell us that it’s going to be okay? I know that no one is ever to lose a loved one. We all want to live a long, beautiful life and we want the same for our beloved. With your help, my father will hopefully have the chance to stick by us longer. I want him to be proud of his family. I want him to be proud of the people around him who are helping him fight this difficult battle.  

 Diagnosis

            Over the summer, my father went through a very sudden weight loss of 30lbs in only 2 months. His symptoms worsened, he was bleeding from his rectum, coughing up blood and was unable to eat because of how hard it was to swallow food.

            In September, he spoke with specialists who told him that these symptoms were not normal. He was very suddenly diagnosed with Gastric Cancer, which had spread into the distal esophagus. My dad needs extreme treatment and quickly. As of right now, his treatment plan is surgery and chemotherapy. Medical attention comes at a high cost and can take a serious financial toll on our family. We would like to very humbly ask for any donations you can spare. 

 About Mantas

          My father grew up in Lithuania, a small country in Northern Europe. Growing up, he was very invested in the entertainment industry. At 10 years old, he had the opportunity to act a small role in a film. As a young adult, my father became a radio personality to further his interest. As he matured, my dad was aware that he had not found his true passion yet. In 2004, he began working in the transportation industry while living in Ireland. He started Roadsharks Brotherhood of Truckers- He found his perfect team. He finally discovered his passion and never set his sight on any other career. In 2012, he relocated to Canada and has been living here ever since.

 Thank you for taking the time to read my dad’s story. We appreciate the support and prayers. 

 Klaudija Stankeviciute