Bakery Fundraiser for Rare Breast Cancer Canceled After Founder Diagnosed with Bladder Cancer
Bakery owner Marco van Esterik has canceled his annual fundraising bake sale in Lelystad after being diagnosed with bladder cancer, Flevopost reported. Van Esterik, who is scheduled to undergo major surgery next week, spent nearly a decade raising money to research phyllodes tumors—an ultra-rare form of breast cancer—following his wife Marloes’ diagnosis.
Decade of Fundraising for Rare Breast Cancer Research
The fundraising campaign started nearly ten years ago when Marloes van Esterik faced a phyllodes tumor. Seeking information on the rare disease, her husband built an initiative that eventually funneled financial support into the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek hospital through ZeldzameBorstKanker.nl.
It makes me incredibly proud to see what we have achieved together,
Van Esterik said, according to Flevopost. He noted that during the inaugural international Phyllodes Symposium held last November, speakers repeatedly cited research made possible by the Lelystad campaign.
The contact group has grown into an international network. Patients from multiple countries now reach out to the group for support and information. A second international symposium is scheduled for next month, and the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek hospital is currently preparing a third research project focused on phyllodes tumors.
Upcoming Surgery Forces Pause on Lelystad Bake Sale
Van Esterik’s recent diagnosis disrupted those plans. Following a round of chemotherapy for bladder cancer, he faces a major surgical procedure next week involving the creation of a stoma.
My energy must now go primarily toward my recovery,
Van Esterik told Flevopost. As a result, I cannot organize the bake sale this year.
While expressing disappointment, he emphasized his gratitude toward the sponsors, donors, volunteers, and researchers who supported the cause.
If his health allows, Van Esterik hopes to revive the bake sale for one final event in 2027, marking a decade since the initiative began.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Canceled Bake Sale
What is a phyllodes tumor?
A phyllodes tumor is a rare type of breast tumor that develops in the connective tissue of the breast, accounting for a tiny fraction of all breast cancer cases. The Lelystad-based Phyllodes Contactgroup connects patients with medical experts and funds specialized research at the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek hospital.
Will the international symposia still take place?
Yes. Following the first international Phyllodes Symposium held in November, a second symposium is scheduled for next month as part of ongoing global research and patient support efforts.
How can supporters find more information?
Additional details regarding patient support and ongoing research are available through ZeldzameBorstKanker.nl and Phyllodes.nl.
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