Rhinos player's plea in battle with terminal cancer

Lucasz Kulas, 28, is aiming to raise £100,000 to pay for experimental treatments overseas and aid research into NUT carcinoma, which currently has no cure. 

Until six months ago, he was healthy and active, not only playing volleyball, but also running half marathons and dreaming of starting a family with fiancée Marta. 

However, in July he was admitted to hospital with severe pain in his hip, spine and lungs and suffering from high fevers. 

Doctors feared he might not live to hear a diagnosis but, after months in care, he was told he had the extremely rare and aggressive form of cancer that had already spread to a number of parts of his body. 

“Since July, I’ve spent most of the time in the hospital, where I have endured painful infections, numerous biopsies, and diagnostic tests,” said Lucasz, writing on his Just Giving page. 

“Then came one of the harshest chemotherapy regimens (VDC/IE), which required almost constant hospitalisation. While this slowed the cancer initially, the treatment has stopped working. NUT carcinoma is relentless.  

“My next options are experimental therapies: immunotherapy in the UK and Germany, or clinical trials in the United States at the Dana-Farber Institute.  

 “These treatments offer the only hope of extending my life – not just for me, but for others with this devastating cancer. By participating in these therapies, I can contribute valuable data that may help future patients with similar rare cancer diagnoses.  

“Unfortunately, the costs of these treatments far exceed my family’s resources. Without them, doctors predict I have only a few months to live.”  

Lucasz and Marta had previously set a wedding date of 28th June 2025 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their relationship, but instead the wedding was brought forward and the couple married via a civil service in the hospital cafeteria. 

Rhinos are organising a tournament to support Lucasz, and anyone who can support through sponsorship or advertising should email chairperson@rhinos.org.uk. 

It’s hard to dream when your life is suddenly turned upside down. Can I still dream of starting a family I might leave so soon? Growing up without a father myself, I always dreamed of giving my children the happy and complete childhood I never had.  

“Now, I want to fight for as many happy moments as possible with my family.    

“This fight is not just for me – it’s for Marta, my family, and others facing this rare cancer. By funding these treatments, you also contribute to vital research that could one day cure NUT carcinoma and other rare cancers, as the data gathered from these therapies will help doctors and scientists improve outcomes for future patients.  

“Your support will cover the costs of life-saving experimental treatments, giving me a chance to live longer and fulfil my dreams.” 

To donate to Lucasz’ appeal, click here.