Warriors and Survivors -182

 Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 182

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. 

Life in small towns is often guided by the rhythm of nature and the quiet perseverance of its people. Families work hard to make ends meet, relying on local resources and community support. Yet sometimes life throws unexpected challenges that test the whole family. Today we have a story of a 7-year-old boy, Ali, who is facing his life’s hardest challenge —cancer.

Ali, a cheerful child, loved playing cricket with his friends and spending time with his younger sister. However, over a few months, he started feeling unusually tired and often complained of body aches. His family, initially attributing this to the common childhood ailments, decided to consult the local physician.

The physician suspected it as cancer and referred Ali to tertiary care hospital for final diagnose. Ali’s family lived in a modest house on the outskirts of their town, where every day was a struggle to provide for basic needs. His father, a farmer, could barely earn enough to support his family on good days. Now, faced with the overwhelming disease and expenses, the parents were worried. The journey was not only about distance but also about financial limitations. With every passing day, the pressure mounted.

Ali’s family decided to seek treatment in Lahore. They managed to gather the required funds through the help of relatives and well-wishers in their community. With a heavy heart and a glimmer of hope, they packed their belongings and set off on the treatment journey.

For Ali, the hospital was overwhelming, both exciting and intimidating. The doctors made the final diagnosis in a week and initiated the treatment protocol later, which included chemotherapy sessions that would stretch over several weeks. 

It is the third week of his treatment, though treatment is free in this tertiary acre hospital and the medical staff is supportive and caring but there are so many expenses that need to be taken care of, when one family member is hospitalized. His father is staying with some relative until Ali gets his treatment, mother takes care of Ali in hospital. 

Back home, the community is rallying around his family. Villagers contributed whatever they could to help with medical expenses. This support proved invaluable and provided his family with the strength to continue. They are also taking care of the rest of the children and Ali’s grandmother.

The stories of love and kindness reached Ali during his treatment, nurturing his resolve to fight the illness. He would often tell the doctors that he wanted to go home and play cricket again. 

After two cycles, Ali’s family could finally see the possibility of returning home, not only with their son but also with a newfound sense of strength and resilience. The experience taught them the importance of community support and unwavering love. Ali still has to go for a long way for his treatment. 

The journey of Ali is not just about battling leukemia; it’s about life, strength, and the bonds that hold us together. As he continues his journey to recovery, Ali’s story inspires many, resonating far beyond the boundaries of his small town in Punjab.

Lots of prayers for young Ali and his family, May Allah make their future easy and may he recover smoothly and quickly. 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.

Warriors and Survivors -181

 Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 181

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. 

Bilal's Journey: A Brave Fight Against Leukemia

Just few months ago, a bright-eyed 13-year-old boy named Bilal was full of dreams. He loved cricket, spent hours playing video games with his friends, and was known for his infectious laughter. However, his laughter dimmed when he noticed a small swelling behind his right ear. It seemed minor at first, but Bilal's parents decided to visit the local hospital where he was treated.

The Unfolding of Symptoms

Initially, doctors diagnosed Bilal with a minor infection. They excised the swelling and prescribed medication, assuring the family that he would be fine in no time. For a few weeks, it seemed they were right. Bilal returned to his usual activities, enjoying cricket matches and spending time with his friends. Yet, during what seemed like a peaceful interlude, his body began to send alarm signals that couldn't be ignored.

One evening, he developed a fever that persisted for days. Along with the fever, his parents noticed that the swelling behind his ear had not only returned but had grown, accompanied by new swelling in his lymph nodes. Concerned, they took him back to the hospital, where doctors conducted a series of tests. Within a few days, they received the news that would change Bilal's life forever: he had been diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).

A Journey to the Children’s Hospital

Hearing the diagnosis felt like a punch to the gut for Bilal and his family. Moments turned into hours as they tried to digest the news. Determined to provide the best care for their son, they were soon referred to a specialized children’s hospital known for its expertise in pediatric cancers.

At the children's hospital, Bilal met many other sick children, a contrast to the somber reality of his diagnosis. The doctors explained his condition in a way that made sense to Bilal, helping him understand that he was not alone in his fight. They outlined a treatment plan, which included chemotherapy—a word that filled many with fear, but for Bilal, it became a symbol of hope.

The Start of Treatment

Bilal began his chemotherapy treatment soon after his admission. He received his first two cycles of chemotherapy, finding solace in the fact that these treatments could help eliminate the cancer cells. Though he was filled with apprehension before each session, his spirit remained resilient. The hospital staff quickly became familiar, taking care of him not just medically, but emotionally as well.

Bilal understood that his body would face challenges during treatment. The side effects often left him fatigued, and he suffered from moments of nausea. Yet, through it all, his spirit shone bright. He embraced the little victories each day brought. On days when he felt well enough, he played video games with friends who rallied to support him, either visiting or connecting virtually. His friends promised him that once he was better, they would have a grand soccer match in his honor.

Keeping Hope Alive

As he continues his treatment journey, Bilal holds on to hope. His family stands by his side, offering him love and support during this challenging time. They have learned the importance of resilience, cherishing every little moment, and finding joy even in uncertainty. Family game nights have become a cherished tradition, and Bilal often shares laughter over silly jokes that uplift them all.

Bilal’s story serves as a reminder of the strength that lives within each of us, especially during tough times. Although his journey is far from over, he faces each day with courage, knowing that every step forward—no matter how small—counts. His dream to play cricket again, under the sun, with all of his friends, remains alive.

While Bilal’s battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia is filled with challenges, his unconditional hope and determination inspire those around him. With each session of chemotherapy, he fights not just for himself but for the love of his family, the laughter of his friends, and the precious dreams that lie ahead. In this journey of bravery, Bilal teaches us all that even on the darkest days, the flicker of hope can light the way forward.

Lots of prayers for young Bilal and his family, May Allah make their future easy and may he recover smoothly and quickly. 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.

Warriors and Survivors - 180

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 180

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. 

In the small city of Sahiwal, lives a brave 10-year-old Eman Fatima. Her’s is a story of resilience, hope, and the challenging journey faced by many families in developing countries when confronted with childhood cancer.

Sahiwal, known for its agricultural richness and historical significance, is home to nearly half a million people. Among them is the Fatima’s family, who like many in the region, struggle to make ends meet in a country where access to advanced healthcare can be limited, especially for those with modest means.

Eman's journey began with what seemed like ordinary growing pains. Her parents, hardworking farmers, initially dismissed her complaints of leg pain as part of childhood. However, as the pain persisted and intensified, their concern grew. In a society where medical knowledge is often limited, and superstitions can sometimes overshadow scientific understanding, the family's path to a diagnosis was challenging.

The family's first stop was the local practitioner of general medicine. When he was not successful in alleviating Eman's pain, they turned to the city's government hospital. From here, they were referred to a specialist in Lahore Children hospital for her specific symptoms.

The journey to Lahore, the nearest big city with advanced medical facilities, was a significant undertaking for the family. The five-hour bus ride, expensive by their standards, marked the beginning of a series of tests and consultations. It was here that Eman was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer that primarily affects children and young adults.

The diagnosis was devastating. The family grappled not only with the medical implications but also with social perceptions. However, the love for their daughter superseded all other concerns.

Treatment for Ewan Sarcoma is intensive and expensive, but it was free in hospital. The family had to travel frequently or make a living arrangement for Eman's chemotherapy sessions in Lahore. Every three weeks, Eman and her mother would make the long journey to the city, staying with distant relatives to save on accommodation costs.

Throughout her six chemotherapy sessions, Eman showed remarkable courage. Despite the physical toll of the treatment, she maintained her bright smile and love for reading stories, a passion she shared with her grandfather. 

The community in Sahiwal rallied around the family. Neighbors helped with household chores when Amina was away with Eman, and the local mosque organized fundraisers to support her treatment. This sense of community, deeply ingrained in Pakistani culture, provided a lifeline for the family during their darkest hours.

Now, after completing her initial round of chemotherapy, Eman faces an uncertain future. The cancer has not fully receded, and further treatment is necessary. The family, having exhausted their financial resources due to traveling and having to bear the cost of more tests, is seeking help from cancer support organizations and generous donors.

Despite the challenges ahead, Eman remains hopeful. Her dream is to become a doctor, inspired by the care she received. "I want to help other children like me," she says with determination in her eyes.

Eman's story is not just about a battle with cancer; it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of community, and the urgent need for better healthcare access in developing regions. As she continues her fight, Eman Fatima from Sahiwal reminds us of all of the resilience of children facing cancer and the importance of supporting families in their most challenging times.

Lots of prayers for young Eman  and her family, May Allah make their future easy and may she recover smoothly and quickly. 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.

Warriors and Survivors - 179

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 179

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. 

Imagine a parent waking up one day and noticing that their child, full of energy and laughter just weeks ago, has become tired, pale, and prone to bruises. This is often the first sign for many parents that something is wrong. For Sarah, a lively 6-year-old who loved playing with dolls and spending time with her friends, life changed drastically when she was diagnosed with leukemia.

Leukemia, a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, can strike suddenly and without warning. Sarah’s parents were devastated when the doctor delivered the diagnosis. What started as unexplained bruises and frequent fevers had turned into something they never expected—a life-threatening illness.

Leukemia can be overwhelming for adults to comprehend, let alone a 6-year-old child. Sarah was confused by her sudden trips to the hospital and the many unfamiliar faces of doctors and nurses. She didn’t understand why her energy seemed to vanish overnight or why she had to stop going to school and playing with her friends.

One of the biggest challenges Sarah faced was the rigorous treatment regimen. Chemotherapy, a common treatment for leukemia, was an entirely new experience for her young body. Her parents tried to explain that the medicine would help her feel better, but the side effects were tough. Sarah's hair began to fall out, and she felt sick and nauseated after her treatments. She didn’t understand why the medicine that was supposed to heal her made her feel so weak.

Sarah’s once-constant energy was drained, and there were days she could barely get out of bed. This drastic change in her routine was hard for her to handle. For a child who loved running around and exploring the world, being confined to hospital beds and staying indoors felt like a cruel punishment.

Emotionally, Sarah’s journey was just as challenging. At 6 years old, children can’t fully grasp the concept of life-threatening diseases, but they do know that something is very wrong. Sarah became frustrated and sad, missing her school and friends. She would often ask her parents, "Why can't I go play outside?" or "Why do I have to be in the hospital so much?" It broke her parents' hearts to try to explain this to her in a way that wouldn’t frighten her even more.

There were moments of fear, too. Sarah saw other children in the cancer ward, some better, some worse. It was confusing and scary for her to see children with similar illnesses going through painful treatments or not making it out of the hospital. Every day was an emotional rollercoaster for Sarah and her family, with good days filled with hope and bad days filled with uncertainty and fear.

For Sarah, every day is a battle, but she fights bravely. We pray that Sarah be able to receive her complete treatment in the best of her health and that she recovers smoothly. We pray that warriors win soon. Aameen

Lots of prayers for young Sarah  and her family, May Allah make their future easy and may she recover smoothly and quickly. 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.

Warriors and Survivors - 178

 Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 178

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. 

Twelve-year-old Mehr un-Nisa was having fever and generalized body weakness for a month. Her weight loss was easily visible, an energetic young girl changed a lot in just a few weeks. Her parents got worried and decided to have her complete health checkup. Mehr un-Nisa had many diagnostic tests in a couple of days and when final diagnosis arrived, it was terribly shocking for everyone. 

Mehr un-Nisa was having acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), news of cancer diagnosis is one of the worst news ever. Her mother almost fainted, her father was sad, and little Mehr did not have any clear idea about her future with this cancer diagnosis. 

After this sad news, family took some time in deciding about her cancer treatment. Mehr un-Nisa was referred to Children’s hospital, it was even more difficult as the family was from Bahawalnagar and having a cancer treatment from another city seems like a bigger nightmare. It meant that the little girl had to take a long break from school and the parents needed to travel frequently and had to have long stays in hospital. 

Mehr un-Nisa’s treatment has been initiated, she has received her first chemotherapy session and it’s a long way to go. She is trying to be courageous, but she is scary seeing many other children in oncology unit. 

Mehr un-Nisa and her parents are trying very hard to have her treatment done but no one knows how long it will take exactly as the warriors get tired if the battle goes longer. 

We pray that Mehr un-Nisa is able to receive her complete treatment in the best of her health and she recovers smoothly. We pray that warriors win soon. Aameen

Lots of prayers for young Mehr un-Nisa and her family, May Allah make their future easy and may she recover smoothly and quickly. 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.

Warriors and Survivors - 177

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 177

 

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. 

Zaisha had just turned three  when she became unwell, two months before the diagnosis of Pre-B ALL (Leukemia). It became apparent that she had red spots all over her body and she became very weak.  Parents taking her to hospital frequently and finally, within few days, a biopsy was undertaken. Then, they heard the unthinkable news. They family had a feeling that their entire world had collapsed, end of their family lives. 

It took them almost two or three days to come back to their senses and think and plan what to do and how to do it. So, after discussion from family physician, parents took Zaisha to Children’s hospital Lahore. Zaisha and family belong to a town Tandliawala. The medical pathway seemed straightforward at first glance. After a series of tests again Zaisha was put on the chemotherapy plan. This involved nine rounds of chemotherapy with planned reviews (scans) every three rounds and a probable operation (resection) after the first scan.

After one rounds of chemotherapy, Zaisha went for first scan. The feedback was limited but worrying – apparently, no change. This was first wake-up call. They received only very vague updates from the hospital. Shrinking the tumor was crucial for planning the resection. Unsatisfied, they sought a private review. Within a few days, they had a detailed review of the imaging, which showed that the tumor was indeed shrinking – this was the news they needed to hear.

Zaisha’s chemotherapy is still going on, she has due 6 more chemotherapy rounds and it is a lot for a three-year-old weak child. Her mother is continuously by her side and father’s heart is with her little daughter. Elder children are worried and restless with the frequent travelling and absence of their parents from house. 

We pray that Zaisha be able to receive her complete treatment in best of her health and she recovers smoothly. 

Lots of prayers for young Zaisha and her family, May Allah make their future easy and may she recover smoothly and quickly. 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.

Warriors and Survivors - 176

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 176

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. 

“Before his diagnosis in September 2023, 9-year-old Taha was a fit and healthy kid, who loved his toys. After several months of Taha telling me he couldn’t breathe, doctors found a large tumor on Taha’s chest that revealed Taha had B-cell leukemia. The tumor covered Taha’s chest, and it pressed on his lungs, and that was what was causing him difficulty breathing.” His mother reported.

Taha’s mother, is one of thousands of families across country whose lives have been turned upside down by their child’s cancer diagnosis. We know families are forced that one parent must remain available 24/7 to care for their sick child. But for single parent families like Taha, the emotional, physical and financial strain is beyond imagination.

The financial stress was and still is a huge burden. One year later Taha is still on treatment and struggling to get by. Being a single mother there had always been only one income which is no more since the start of treatment. Either she can be by her child or go to earn. 

If she is not earning, they don’t eat. But how does one choose between being by their child’s side or earning money? So, for four to six months, they had zero money coming in. 

It’s a very scary situation to be in and risky for child’s treatment as well. No one can ever be prepared for something like this, friends and family leave gradually. Such families need support and financial help along with cancer treatment of their child. 

Taha is still in treatment, and he still has another year to go, needing a lumbar puncture and starting another round of chemotherapy and steroids again.

The unexpected costs associated with cancer can build up, whether it’s taking time off work, having to give up other life responsibilities and work completely, traveling to hospital or having to rent somewhere closer to hospital. Taha’s mother is going through a lot. 

There are no such arrangements officially that children and families like Taha can be helped financially. There are some donors or social workers who help these patients’ individually on need basis, but the problem is bigger than this and should be managed properly in order to save these souls.

Lots of prayers for young Taha and his mother, May Allah make their future easy and may his disease never come back. 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.