Support Marc’s Fight Against Cancer

(Please see most recent updates in the lower box below)

Dear Friends and Family,

I’m reaching out to share some difficult news about my brother-in-law, Marc Koprinarov. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma in July and recently had a critical 12-hour surgery at Rush Hospital. Marc’s surgeon removed the tumor in his mouth, jaw bone, and his lymph nodes. They are replaced his lower left jaw by removing the fibula from his leg. Rush is worked with University of Illinois Chicago as an interdisciplinary team to reconstruct his tibia as the new jaw bone. This is an all hands on deck approach.

His surgery was moved up due to the rapid progression of the cancer. He will be in a medically induced coma post-op with a temporary tracheotomy and will stay in the hospital for a week or so. He will need a feeding tube post surgery and radiation.

Alongside Marc’s fight, Kristin and Marc are parents to two young children, Stella (1) aka “Stelly” and David (2) aka “Weasy.” This situation has not only been emotionally taxing with two small children but also requires numerous trips to the city for cancer care, with a long journey ahead after surgery. Marc will be on medical leave from work for an extended period, while Kristin continues to work as a school therapist to support the family during this challenging time.

We’ve created this GoFundMe to provide them some relief during this heartbreaking period (even though this GFM is the last thing they would ever want or ask for). Your support—whether through donations or simply sharing this message— will mean the world to Marc, Kristin, and their children as they navigate this difficult journey.

Thank you for your prayers, love, and any help you can provide as we stand alongside Marc and his family in this fight. It truly takes a village and let’s help him tackle this!!

With gratitude,

Lauren Day (Sister-in-law to Marc & Auntie to Stella & David) & Family