30-Year-Old Fights Third Cancer Battle & Couple Seek Funds for Home Completion

Fabiana Sulek, a 30-year-old woman from Wolfsburg, Germany, is facing a recurring battle with a rare form of cancer. Her story, unfolding against the backdrop of a partially renovated home and a disrupted career, highlights the profound personal and financial challenges that can accompany a cancer diagnosis – particularly when it returns multiple times.

A Third Diagnosis at a Young Age

Sulek’s journey began in October 2022 with a diagnosis of stage three ovarian cancer. Following surgery, which included the removal of her uterus, ovaries, and peritoneum, she was considered cancer-free by February 2024 and returned to her work as a trained tool mechanic at VW. However, her relief was short-lived. She received a second diagnosis in July 2024, followed by a third in May 2025, revealing multiple liver metastases.

The Financial Strain of Recurring Illness

The repeated diagnoses have created significant financial hardship for Sulek and her husband, Christoph Pohl. Sulek is currently unable to work and receives a limited pension, placing the primary financial burden on her husband. The couple had purchased a house in 2022 with plans for self-renovation, a project now stalled due to the ongoing medical expenses and Sulek’s inability to contribute physically to the work.

Did You Know? Granulosazelltumor, the rare cancer Fabiana Sulek is battling, affects approximately 100 people annually in Germany.

A Wedding Amidst Adversity

Despite the immense challenges, Sulek and Pohl were married on August 22, 2025. They continue to live in the partially renovated home, occupying only the ground floor while the upper level remains unfinished. Sulek expressed a desire to see the house completed and to have a proper bedroom, a goal that has prompted a public appeal for financial assistance.

Seeking Support Through Crowdfunding

The couple has launched a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe, aiming to raise 50,000 euros to complete the house renovation. As of February 23, 2026, they had raised 8,215 euros. Sulek acknowledged the initial difficulty in asking for help, stating, “We wanted to never be a burden to anyone. At first, it felt like we were begging.” Her doctor does not believe she will be able to return to work, though Sulek hopes for the possibility of part-time employment in the future.

Expert Insight: Recurring cancer diagnoses, even with periods of remission, can create a cycle of hope and anxiety for patients and their families. The financial implications of long-term treatment and potential loss of income add another layer of complexity to an already emotionally taxing situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cancer does Fabiana Sulek have?

Fabiana Sulek has a rare form of cancer called Granulosazelltumor. She initially received a diagnosis of stage three ovarian cancer in October 2022, and has since received two additional diagnoses, including one with multiple liver metastases in May 2025.

What is the purpose of the GoFundMe campaign?

The GoFundMe campaign is intended to raise 50,000 euros to fund the completion of the renovation of Fabiana and Christoph Pohl’s house. The renovation was halted after Fabiana’s initial cancer diagnosis.

What is Fabiana Sulek’s current employment status?

Fabiana Sulek is currently unable to work and receives a small pension. Her doctor does not believe she will be able to return to work, though she hopes for the possibility of part-time employment in the future.

How do individuals navigate maintaining hope and pursuing life goals when faced with repeated health setbacks?