From Hel to Rysy for Antek. Marek Kmiotek is one step away from the finale of an extraordinary journey

This is a story that shows that great things do not begin with great words. They begin with the decision to move forward — step by step — for someone who cannot undertake such a fight themselves.

Marek Kmiotek set off from Hel, and his destination is Rysy. He is not walking for a record, fame, or personal satisfaction. He is walking for Antek — a boy suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a severe and progressive genetic disease.

Over 800 kilometers of hope

The route from Hel to Rysy is a huge physical and mental challenge. Long days of marching, changing weather, hundreds of kilometers of asphalt, forest roads, and mountain ascents. In material published by TVP3 Kielce, it was reported that after 24 days, Marek had already covered over 800 kilometers.

Each of these kilometers matters. Each one is meant to remind us that Antek needs real support, and time is not an ally in the case of a progressive disease.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy gradually takes away physical ability. It is a diagnosis that one cannot reconcile with or remain indifferent to. Antek's family is fighting for the possibility of treatment, and a huge wave of people has formed around the boy who do not want to leave him alone.

Tomorrow, Rysy. But the fight does not end at the summit

The ascent of Rysy is intended to be the symbolic finale of an extraordinary journey. Marek will reach the highest point in Poland, but the most important journey — Antek's path to treatment and safety — will still continue.

That is why this campaign cannot be treated solely as an inspiring story. It is, above all, an appeal for concrete support. For a donation, a share, a comment, and reaching more people. Even the smallest help, multiplied by thousands of people, can become something huge.

Marek has shown that one can walk across all of Poland for Antek. We can do something simpler — not walk past this story with indifference.

Help Antek

The campaign can be supported via the "Hike across Poland for Antek" page on Siepomaga. The main fundraiser for Antek Maksajda is also available.

Share this story. Support the fundraiser. Let the finale on Rysy be not only the end of Marek's march but the beginning of even greater help for Antek.