Warriors & Survivors

Friday, April 4, 2025

Warriors and Survivors - 207

Warriors and Survivors - Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 207

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in the Pediatric Oncology unit of a public hospital for several years. The mission of this blog is to bring to you the real-life stories of child patients suffering from cancer. Cancer is still a difficult disease to handle and treat. However, when it strikes the children, some so young that they cannot even speak, their agony is beyond expression and words. Let us pray especially for children suffering from cancer for early and complete remission. May Allah shower His Merciful Blessings upon them. Aameen.

One day, Ali’s mother noticed some swelling on his left leg, but she thought it was just a rash or a common insect bite. Soon she realized that the swelling was not decreasing in size, it was still there after many days, she decided to take Ali to his pediatrician who recommended some diagnostics tests and a biopsy.

As they were awaiting the results of the biopsy, his mother and Ali had plans to travel outstation to visit family for the holidays. But what began as a highly anticipated end of year family trip from Lahore to Karachi, quickly took an unexpected turn for his mother and Ali.

During their travel, Ali began to experience pain in both legs and a high fever, that raised the mother’s concern. Immediately after reaching Karachi, she decided to rush Ali to the nearest emergency room for an evaluation, where they were advised that the best thing was to be transferred to Children’s Hospital in Karachi. Once they arrived, mother was shocked to learn that they were instantly admitted to the hematology and oncology unit for yet another biopsy and additional testing.

Tests results and the biopsy confirmed that Ali had alveolar sarcoma, an aggressive type of sarcoma, or cancer of the soft tissue (muscle), connective tissue (tendons or cartilage), or bone. There are only about 500 rhabdomyosarcoma cases per year in the United States, and of those only 100 are an alveolar subtype.

In Ali’s case, it began in his leg and traveled to his back. It was also determined that he was a stage 4, which meant he needed to begin treatment immediately. That’s when mother and Ali met oncologist in Children’s Hospital who guided them through an extremely intense treatment regimen of including chemotherapy, resection surgery and proton radiation.

Ali’s treatment continued for some time in Karachi and after couple months he was shifted to Lahore for his treatment. Hos treatment here in his hometown is continued. He is responding well to his treatment and there is quite a hope that soon he will be cancer free and back to his home.

Prayers for the all the sick children and their families who have to face this pain of cancer. May Allah make it easy for them. Aameen

Lots of prayers for Ali to recover quickly and never experience his illnesses again. May they lead happy and healthy lives once more. Aameen.

Friday, March 28, 2025

Warriors and Survivors - 206

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 206

Raheel at five  was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, which is a rare type of cancer that develops in nerve tissue and usually affects children under five years of age.

Back in September last year he was constipated all the time—parents couldn’t figure out what was causing it. It was so severe sometimes he cried at night, grabbing his abdomen. Parents consulted few doctors and when bloodwork and CT was  done- results discovered that he had a cancer/a tumor.

Parents said they will never forget the fear and helplessness while waiting for the biopsy results. Having the diagnosis in hand, they were thinking, ‘Why? Why him? It was hard to swallow.

Raheel was referred to children hospital like many other children diagnosed with cancer. This hospital has one of the largest pediatric cancer centers in country.

All the Children with cancer worldwide have to endure long treatments, hospital stays, multiple test and procedures. Raheel and his family were quite prepared and hopeful for the treatment.

Raheel has been extremely brave through everything he faced. Treatment for high-risk neuroblastoma is very difficult and requires a lot of time in the hospital, but Raheel always has a positive attitude when he is coming in for treatment.

Of course, this new life change has not been easy. Cancer treatment is tough. Different biopsies, operations, having implants, the change of skin color and hair loss. That’s the worst thing about Raheel having cancer—seeing him suffer. It is something that no parent wants to see their child go through. Managing a healthy work-life balance has also been difficult. 

Raheel has one 12-year-old brother. He pretty much had to live on his own for at least a week at a time while Raheel’s getting chemo at the hospital because parents were not able to drop him off and pick them up from school.

Typically, we try to plan years ahead, but with cancer, you can't do that. You must live one day at a time—to cherish life. Cherish the small moments, because, you know, nothing is promised. Nothing is set in stone. We have to be grateful for each day we have. We have to value the people that are around us.

Parents will do anything for their children, but when Raheel is suffering, there is not much parents can do to cure him.

Raheel is on the road to recovery now, and parents remains hopeful.

Prayers for the sick children and their families who have to face this pain of cancer. May Allah make it easy for them. Aameen

Lots of prayers for all sick children to recover quickly and never experience their illnesses again. May they lead happy and healthy lives once more. Aameen.

Friday, March 21, 2025

Warriors and Survivors - 205

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 205

Stars we lost – Eternal light

Today I came across Zahid’s picture who had been under treatment for a long time in oncology unit of our hospital, he was from Sahiwal and used to come to Lahore with him mother, father and younger brothers for treatment.

Zahid’s picture made me sad, and I recalled the memories with him, he was 9 years old skinny child and used to come at my workplace whenever he was admitted for his scheduled treatment. He was a patient of hepatocellular carcinoma, and I met him during my routine work in the unit. Just a small discussion and he was my friend.

He had lots of dreams and wishes, dream to be an engineer someday, dream to be his family’s support as he had two younger brothers. He always wished to play in the ground like normal children which he never could do due to his health. Though he was able to walk by himself but later he was so sick that he had to be on wheelchair.

After four years of treatment and struggle he lost his battle to cancer.

Zahid's picture brought back memories of all the stars that we have lost during my work at children hospital, of course I do not know all, but I remember a lot of them whom I met and had a chance to talk to them about their feelings, their pain and their struggle.

I cannot forget many of them, it hurts whenever I recall them, I remember a cute and smiling ten years old Asad who was suffering with T cell ALL and who expired in a blink of an eye.

Mehreen is still in my memory who had been on palliative care for a long time due to her relapsed Leukemia.

Ushna, a big girl who was so shy as she had lost her hairs due to treatment, she seemed so sad not because of her pain but the trouble her family had to face for her treatment and traveling back and from Okara to Lahore.

I still remember, Aamna an eight-year-old talkative girl who used to see me and call my name loudly, she was a Leukemia patient and used to come from village for her treatment. I cannot forget her smile and tone.

This blog is for all the pearls that we lost, these warriors who could not win but fought bravely till their last breath.

Talking about these warriors, once Farida apa (our philanthropist and social worker) said, “these stars are making galaxy in the sky, and I am waiting to meet them once I will join them”.

Prayers for the lost stars and their families who have to face this pain of losing their child whole life. May Allah make it easy for them. Aameen

Lots of prayers for all sick children to recover quickly and never experience their illnesses again. May they lead happy and healthy lives once more. Aameen.

Friday, March 14, 2025

Warriors and Survivors -204

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 204

14-year-old Ahmad is like many other kids his age—full of dreams, laughter, and an endless curiosity about the world. Ahmad was in grade 8 when his life changed altogether; he was diagnosed with leukemia.

Ahmad had always been a healthy child, excelling in his studies and participating in sports. He loved playing cricket with his friends in the narrow lanes of his neighborhood. But over a short period, he began to feel different. Fatigue, frequent bruising, and persistent fevers led him to the doctor’s office. After several tests, the heartbreaking news came: Ahmad had leukemia.

Ahmad’s treatment began with chemotherapy, a process that was grueling and taken a toll on his body. The intense medications came with side effects—nausea, hair loss, and constant fatigue. This was a difficult time for Ahmad. He missed being in school, interacting with his friends, and playing cricket. Instead of attending classes and participating in school events, he was often confined to a hospital room or resting at home.

His days blurred into a cycle of treatments and recovery. Ahmad’s family often visited him, bringing small gifts—books, drawing supplies, and sometimes homemade meals from his favorite dishes. Ahmad found comfort in drawing, using his art to express feelings he struggled to put into words. His drawings depicted not just his fight against cancer but also dreams of a future filled with normal activities, friends, and continued education.

Throughout his treatment, Ahmad discovered the value of community and support. Their kindness lifted Ahmad’s spirits and reminded him that he was not alone in this fight. His teachers kept in touch, providing him with assignments to ensure he didn’t fall behind in his studies.

There were also moments of connection with other children facing similar challenges. In the pediatric ward, Ahmad befriended other young patients. They shared stories, dreams, and even fears. Their conversations often brought laughter—an emotional sooth to the harsh realities of their circumstances. Ahmad realized that while their battles were different, they were all united in the hope for a healthier tomorrow.

Fast forward to today, after three long years of treatment, Ahmad is nearing the end of his journey. His doctors have delivered the encouraging news: his cancer is in remission. The news is a profound relief for Ahmad and his family—a moment they had longed for.

As he prepares to leave the hospital for the last time as a patient, he is full of emotions. There’s joy, relief, and a newfound appreciation for life. Ahmad looks forward to rejoining his friends and returning to school. He has missed the hustle and bustle of attending classes, laughing with friends, and especially being part of his cricket team.

Ahmad is ready to reclaim the life he had to step away from. He dreams of catching up with his peers, sharing stories of his journey, and more importantly, continuing his education. His experiences have fueled a desire to raise awareness about pediatric cancer, so that others may recognize the signs and understand the importance of early detection.

While Ahmad’s journey is far from over, and he knows challenges may still lie ahead. He has developed resilience that will serve him well not just in his academic career but throughout life. Ahmad's story reminds us of the strength of hope and the importance of community support in fighting diseases like cancer.

Ahmad's journey teaches us to cherish our health and embrace compassion for those going through tough times. His resilience is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome, and it ignites hope for countless others facing their own battles.

Lots of prayers for Ahmad and all sick children to recover quickly and never experience their illnesses again. May they lead happy and healthy lives once more. Aameen.

Friday, March 7, 2025

Warriors and Survivors -203

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 203

Pediatric lymphoma is a type of cancer that occurs in children and originates in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is crucial for a child's immune response and helps fight off infections. When lymphoma develops, it can affect a child's health, future, and emotional well-being. This blog will focus on Hira, a 4-year-old girl from Sialkot, who is navigating the overwhelming challenges of lymphoma.

What is Pediatric Lymphoma?

Pediatric lymphoma primarily affects children and can be classified into two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. These cancers can affect the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and other organs. Symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, weight loss, and persistent fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a better prognosis.

Hira's Diagnosis

Hira was a joyful little girl, full of energy and laughter, spending her days playing with her friends and exploring the world around her. However, she is now a crying little baby with pain in her eyes. Her parents noticed that she was unusually tired and had trouble keeping up with her peers during playtime. After a visit to the doctor and a series of tests, they received the heartbreaking news: Hira was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma.

The Impact of Diagnosis

Receiving such news is devastating, not just for the child but for the entire family. For Hira, the diagnosis brought confusion and fear. At just four years old, she couldn't fully understand what lymphoma meant, but she sensed that something was wrong. The hospital visits, doctors in white coats, and the prevalence of needles made her anxious. Hira’s dreams of playing outside and chasing butterflies started to diminish, replaced by the worries of treatment and pain.

Hira's Pain and Emotion

Hira’s treatment journey has been challenging. She has endured painful procedures that left her feeling ill and exhausted. Despite her young age, she is aware that her body is struggling. Hira often tells her parents she feels “sick” and wishes she could play like other children. The pain of her condition often led to moments of frustration, and she would burst into tears when she couldn't bear pain and is extremely fearful.

The emotional toll extends beyond physical pain. Hira’s spirit occasionally wavers, leading her into bouts of sadness. She experiences moments of confusion and fear about her illness and she is too young to think beyond present pain. Her parents do their best to comfort her, assuring her that she is brave, but Hira sometimes feels small and lost in a world filled with uncertainty.

Current Challenges

As Hira continues her treatment, she faces several challenges. Along with physical suffering and emotional turmoil, she deals with feelings of isolation. Being in and out of the hospital means missing out on playdates, family outings, and the simple joys of childhood. The poor girl is not able to play at home either.

Her parents watch helplessly as their little girl battles the weight of her illness. They share in her pain and fears, sitting beside her during treatments, holding her hand, and wiping away her tears. Sometimes, the whole family feels heavy from the emotional strain.

Looking Forward

Although Hira's journey is fraught with uncertainties, there are also reasons to hope. Advances in medical research and treatment provide a glimmer of optimism for pediatric lymphoma patients. Hira's parents remain hopeful, focusing on the little victories along the way rather than the challenges.

Every day is a new opportunity for Hira. They celebrate small milestones, like having a good day or playing for a few minutes without feeling tired. They remind her that she is strong and resilient, and that there is a future filled with possibilities awaiting her.

Conclusion

Hira’s journey with pediatric lymphoma is a poignant reminder of the complexities of childhood illness. Awareness and support for children like Hira are crucial, as they navigate the challenging path of cancer treatment. By sharing stories like hers, we can foster understanding, compassion, and a sense of community for families facing similar battles. Hira's story is still being written, and with every new chapter, there is hope for brighter future.

Lots of prayers for Hira and all sick children to recover quickly and never experience their illnesses again. May they lead happy and healthy lives once more. Aameen.

Friday, February 28, 2025

Warriors and Survivors - 202

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 202

Fighting the Shadows: Sara’s Journey with T-Cell Leukemia

Today, we take a closer look at the journey of 11-year-old Sara from Pakpattan, who is currently battling T-cell leukemia. She is very innocent child with a pure heart.

Pediatric leukemia primarily affects children and is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal white blood cells. The most common forms are Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), with T-cell leukemia being a subtype of ALL. This type of leukemia tends to progress rapidly, often requiring immediate treatment. For many children diagnosed with this disease, the journey is filled with painful treatments, hospital visits, and adjustments to their normal life. The disease has poor outcome in underdeveloped countries.

Meet Sara: A Brave Fighter

Sara is no ordinary 11-year-old. Living in the vibrant city of Pakpattan, she is so innocent and loving girl. A rare child with patience, may be her pain has taught her how to be patient. Her life has been changed altogether since she was diagnosed with T-cell leukemia a little over a year ago.

The Painful Diagnosis

Sara’s trouble began with persistent fatigue and frequent fevers. At first, her parents thought it was just a fever—perhaps the flu. But as her symptoms worsened, they decided to consult doctors. When the symptoms were continuous, they had to run tests. After numerous tests, the diagnosis of leukemia shattered their world. It was hard for Sara to comprehend what this meant. Just a child, she was suddenly thrust into a difficult adult world of hospitals, treatments, and medical jargon.

The Struggles of Treatment

Sara’s treatment started almost immediately, beginning with chemotherapy. The sessions left her feeling weak, nauseous, and often in pain. The side effects of the medication were daunting. She watched her hair fall out, felt the loss of her energy, and had to deal with the continued sickness. Sara found it especially hard not being able to join her friends and family. Each hospital stay made her feel increasingly isolated.

Her emotions began to spiral as the pressures of her condition mounted. Normally cheerful, Sara found herself battling feelings of sadness and despair. The dreams of an innocent child were clouded by the dark shadows of uncertainty and fear.

Facing Fears and Anxiety

Sara often thinks what if the treatment didn’t work. Would she ever get to play and study again? Would she be able to celebrate her birthday? These thoughts haunted her. Along with fear, Sara battled anxiety about her changing body and the situations that made her feel vulnerable.

She struggled with feelings of inadequacy; she questioned her worth and felt disconnected from her family and friends. The things that once brought her joy, like painting or playing with friends, began to fade as her depression took hold. Her parents watched helplessly as their bright, spirited daughter seemed to dim.

In her toughest moments, Sara found strength through her family and community support. Art therapy became a solace for her, a way to express what she felt inside without needing to say a word. Sara began to channel her energy into creativity. She made drawings in her room, vibrant depictions of far-off places and happy memories, reminding herself that laughter and joy could still exist.

A Step Toward Tomorrow

Today, Sara remains in treatment. While the journey is ongoing, and her conditions fluctuate, she has a sense of purpose. As her mother counseled her, she has to fight for herself and for her family. She has to continue treatment until she is cured.

Sara’s story not only gives insights of the challenges of pediatric leukemia but also the enduring spirit that helps children like Sara fight on.

Lots of prayers for Sara and all sick children to recover quickly and never experience their illnesses again. May they lead happy and healthy lives once more. Aameen.

Friday, February 21, 2025

Warriors and Survivors - 201

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 201

A Brave Heart: The Journey of a 10-Year-Old Fighting Leukemia

In a small room filled with colorful drawings and toys, there lives a boy - Danial, who is just 10 years old. He is a normal child, and his room might look like any other child's. But the colorful drawings on the walls hide a world filled with struggles and courage, as Danial is facing a battle that no child should ever have to fight: leukemia.

A few months back, Danial’s life took a sudden sad turn. What started as simple fatigue and occasional fevers led to countless doctor visits and tests. But the day they received the diagnosis changed everything. Danial’s mother held his hand tightly as the doctor explained that he had leukemia. The words felt heavy, like a storm cloud hanging over their family.

The Pain of Treatment

Since the diagnosis, Danial’s life revolving around doctor appointments and treatments. Each week brings new challenges: chemotherapy sessions that leave him feeling weak and sick, days spent in the hospital, and countless needles that prick his small arms. He used to enjoy playing cricket with his friends, but now he spends that same time in a hospital bed, feeling weak and sometimes in pain.

Danial’s memories of laughter and fun have been replaced by hospital gowns and IV drips. The exhaustion from treatment steals the energy that once fueled his playful spirit. He often tells his mother that he feels “tired of being tired,” a sentiment that rings true for many who walk this difficult path. It’s heartbreaking to see a child, once filled with dreams of becoming a cricketer, now just wanting to feel “normal” again.

The Emotional Toll

The journey through leukemia isn’t just taxing on the body; it extracts an emotional toll as well. Danial has feelings of sadness and frustration. He misses his friends and the carefree days of riding bikes in the park. Sometimes, he sees other kids playing outside his window and asks, “Why can’t I be out there with them?” His innocence clashes with a harsh reality that he cannot escape.

For his parents, the weight of the diagnosis weighs heavily. They oscillate between hope and despair, battling sleepless nights and a constant worry that scares them. Every time they see their son in pain, their hearts break a little more. They try to keep a positive front, often whispering words of encouragement in hopes of inspiring Danial. But inside, they share a fear that can’t be spoken aloud.

Danial’s younger sister, Maria, also feels the impact of her brother's illness. She’s too young to fully comprehend why Danial can’t play with her as before, but she misses him desperately. Sometimes, she draws pictures of her family, holding hands and smiling; reminders of better days and an unshakable bond.

The Road Ahead

While Danial’s battle is far from over, both he and his family hold onto hope. Each day is an opportunity to face challenges together and create lasting memories. The journey through leukemia is hard, and there are no guarantees, but Danial’s bravery reminds everyone around him of the incredible strength found in love and unity.

Through heartaches and hardships, the road ahead remains intertwined with hope—a hope that fuels not just Danial’s fight, but also the resolve of everyone who loves him. As they navigate this storm together, they know that in the pain and suffering, there lies the possibility of brighter tomorrows. And perhaps, one day, Danial will look back on this time not just with memories of struggle but with a sense of pride in his courage and the love that enveloped him all along.

Lots of prayers for Danial and all sick children to recover quickly and never experience their illnesses again. May they lead happy and healthy lives once more. Aameen.