A Ukrainian woman living in Wells, Somerset, has been overwhelmed by the generous response to her fundraising campaign aimed at securing a life-saving cancer operation for her mother.
Siiara Nakhmetova is urgently raising funds for her mum, Fatima, who is facing a critical stage of ovarian cancer after nearly 15 years of continuous treatment.
Her GoFundMe campaign has already collected over £6,000, with some donors contributing as much as £1,000. However, the family needs to raise a total of £20,000 to cover a crucial surgical procedure in Turkey – Fatima’s only remaining hope to extend her life.
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Having already spent thousands on her mother’s treatment, the family now seeks help to cover the cost of this high-risk operation, which promises significant relief.
“My mom is the heart of our family,” Siiara said. “She is the kindest, most empathetic, and selfless person you could ever meet. Even while unwell, she has always been there to help others.”
“She finds joy in the simplest moments and fights to stay strong for us every day, despite the pain.”
“Asking for help is incredibly difficult, but I would do anything to give her more time with us. She deserves every chance to keep fighting.”
Siiara urges anyone who can to donate—no matter how small the amount—as every contribution makes a difference. For those unable to give, sharing the fundraiser helps reach others who might be able to offer support.
Originally from Kharkiv, Ukraine, the family has consistently covered Fatima’s medical expenses privately, including surgeries, chemotherapy, scans, and international travel.
Recent medical imaging revealed extensive tumour growth in Fatima’s abdomen and pelvis, causing severe pain and organ compression. UK doctors have advised that no curative treatments remain available locally.
After months of searching and spending over £15,000 on consultations, the family found a surgeon in Turkey willing to perform a complex debulking operation—a procedure that could relieve Fatima’s symptoms and extend her life.
The family has already invested $36,000 using savings and an emergency loan to secure the surgery.
“Last week, my mum underwent an eight-hour operation in Turkey,” Siiara shared. “The doctor said the surgery went well, and she is now under close observation.”
However, additional funding is required for Fatima’s ongoing post-operative care, and Siiara hopes the GoFundMe campaign will continue to receive support.
Her brother Arzu, a taxi driver in Shepton Mallet, has also publicly appealed for assistance.
The family thanks everyone for their kindness and solidarity during this profoundly challenging time.