Tomasz Jakubiak, the renowned chef and judge from the culinary show "MasterChef Nastolatki," recently opened up about his harrowing battle with cancer following his return from treatment in Israel. Speaking candidly with MAGDA NABIAŁCZYK during his appearance on "Dzień Dobry TVN," Jakubiak shared the challenges he has faced, including severe pain and the daily hurdles he navigates. Despite these struggles, he maintains a spirit of hope and resilience.
Having fought with the illness for several months now, Jakubiak returned to Poland with his family mid-January after receiving specialized treatment aimed at combating his condition. "After the first protocol, they wanted to see how Tomasz's body would react and test it. So there was this first protocol applied, and after three doses, they immediately check what is happening. They concluded he is stable but not completely satisfactory. Then they took a break to regulate Tomasz's pain," shared Anastazja, Jakubiak's wife.
During the treatment, pain became the most significant adversary he faced. "This pain is just the worst thing possible. It's like someone drilling you through the thigh, back, lumbar region, and feet. You seek only to find a comfortable position to sit and rest," Jakubiak expressed, explaining the severity of his discomfort. Notably, he has resorted to using a wheelchair due to the intensity of his pain.
Jakubiak's treatment regimen included reducing the medications causing memory loss, as mentioned by his wife, who has been by his side throughout this ordeal. "They took two weeks off to regulate Tomasz, moving him to more effective medication," Anastazja noted. They’ve also recently discovered treatment protocols based on the genetic factors of his illness, making adjustments for Jakubiak’s specific needs.
Returning to his homeland, Jakubiak’s outlook remained optimistic. He draws strength from the love of his family and the overwhelming support from his fans. "I don’t know where I get this energy and strength from. But the fact is, during sleepless nights, I wonder where I find the power to get up and face everything. Here is my motivation. There is another little one flying around the ground, my son…,” he reflected emotionally.
With admirable tenacity, he affirmed, "There’s no way I’m giving up. I’ll do everything I can until I completely fall." Despite the immense physical and emotional burden, Jakubiak remains focused on the improvements he hopes to see.
The public response has been heartwarming, with countless fans rallying behind him. During his emotional recounting, Jakubiak recalled watching the first episode of the new season of "MasterChef.” He reflected, "I can’t tell you how many times I cried, having to pause the program to compose myself as I saw how children were supporting me and how many people are behind me. It’s just amazing to witness this wave of empathy.”
Jakubiak's need for continued treatment weighs heavily, both physically and financially. The mounting costs have led to fundraisers to assist him through this trying time. "We need funds for continuing treatments. Those who wish to help can support the chef through our fundraising efforts," he encouraged, highlighting his willingness to continue the fight and the community support he relies on.
Looking toward the future, Jakubiak aims to get back to his culinary passions and warmly acknowledges the opportunity to connect with his fans along the way. "I’m grateful for all the love and support, and I want to show everyone who is rooting for me just how grateful I am for their encouragement. It’s what keeps me going," he concluded, cementing his role as not only a chef but also as an inspiring figure fighting through the odds.
Jakubiak's experience serves as both a personal testimony and a beacon of hope for others battling adversity. With the right support, he believes recovery is possible and holds on to the hope of returning to his cooking and his life before cancer.