Warriors and Survivors -38

 Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 38

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

Children’s Cancer Hospital Cairo Egypt which is widely called “57357” is like my second Institute and is very dear to me. It is the world largest Children’s cancer hospital in terms of capacity i.e 380 beds. In 57357, two hundred pharmacists serve round the clock and provide world class pharmaceutical care services to pediatric oncology patients. It is the first non-US institute recognized by ASHP (American Society of Hospital Pharmacists).

There are many cancer survivors and warriors who got treatment from 57357 and Alhumdolillah doing great. I am going to introduce our Pharmacist hero and Masha Allah a survivor who was once a warrior who he fought the battle bravely and Allah blessed him health.

Hossam Eldin Ahmed Othman is our today’s Survivor who is also practicing pharmacist and working in 57357 since Aug 2021.  

When Hossam was 13 years old, there was a little swelling in neck on the right side and when his mother saw it she asked Hossam when did this happen and he answered that he did not know exactly. Mother got worried and on recommendation of her colleague she took Hossam to “57357, Children Cancer Hospital Cairo Egypt” first time in May 2010.

Within next two weeks, Hossam had to take several blood tests, CT scans and a biopsy.  Later tests reports led to the diagnoses of Hodgkin lymphoma. 

Hossam belongs to educated family. His mother is a rheumatologist, and his father is an engineer from Cairo Egypt. He has one younger sister who is student as well.

It was a terrible news for family but brave family and Hossam did not lose hope. His treatment started in 57357 and he received four chemotherapy cycles. Post chemotherapy tests revealed that Hossam’s disease was in remission by grace of Allah. Now he had to visit hospital for monthly check up.

After four years, during routine testing in October 2014, a very sad news of relapse was given to his parents. It was disheartening for everyone. Only option was to seek treatment again. So Hossam had to receive chemotherapy and radiotherapy again and this time with relapse protocol. Warrior received 3 cycles of chemo with high spirit and then he had to undergo quite an investigation to confirm treatment response. The results were satisfactory by the grace of Almighty. There were still three cycles of chemo Hossam had to bear, the brave guy bore that all three.

After five chemotherapy courses, it was time for second assessment of treatment response. But at this visit they learned the cancer had relapsed (returned), this was second time for Hossam. As devastating as the news of cancer was the first time, the words cut deeper the second time the family heard them.

Hossam’s mother said, “When you hear your child has cancer, it’s like a kick in the gut,” said Evan’s father, Tim. “When you hear it a second time, it’s the same emotions all over again. The second time is hardest.”

The physician told his parents that there is no hope and cure for Hossam’s treatment and that he will be sent to palliative clinic but brave parents decided that they will complete the protocol and Hossam took his last cycle and you know what, by Almighty’s miracle Hossam’s cancer was totally cured after the last cycle Alhumdolillah.

But in early 2015, Hossam’s tests again showed relapse and this time there was no treatment option for him except bone marrow transplant. Relying on Allah’s bounties Hossam’s bone marrow auto transplant was done in October 2015. It was Masha Allah successful, and he is doing fine since then.

Hossam started his pharmacy school after his transplant and he is working with dedication as hospital pharmacist in 57357. He is a role model and example for all sick children. 

Hossam says that his family was the reason that he was able to complete his treatment. They also encouraged him to continue his studies during and after treatment. His sister always supported him and took care of him when he was isolated. That is why he is clinical pharmacist at 57357 children cancer hospital, the exact place where he was once a patient.

In 57357, when any patient refuses treatment or is afraid or sad of chemotherapy, Hossam is usually called for patient counseling and he tell them his story, a tale of struggle and bravery. Hossam says, I am happy to give hope and smiles to children suffering from cancer and their families”.  There is message from him, “Never lose hope and always smile and thank Allah for everything”

Hossam need lots of sincere prayers for healthy life always. Let’s pray for health, happiness, and successful life of Hossam, and all suffering children. Aameen

I pray for healthy and smooth recovery of all our warriors, and healthy life for all our surviors May Allah bless them health always. Aameen

Warriors and Survivors - 37

 

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 37

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

Flowers, and children are alike, they elevate our mood and bring freshness whenever we come across them. Probably, this is reason we bring flowers for our dear ones and spend time with children.

Meeting with children may not be a cheerful experience when they are in hospital suffering with some uncommon disease. I was not happy after meeting seven years Azan Ali today. In fact, after seeing his condition I am in pain.

Azan Ali is seven years old child, resident of Shahdra. He has three siblings, and he is third child of his parents. Poor guy does not belong to an educated family, and he is not even a school going child at the age of seven years. He only goes to local mosque to learn Quran. His father is street vendor.

Couple of months ago, Azan felt pain in abdomen. In this age abdominal pain is considered as an excuse for holiday so parents did not bother much. In the next few days, Azan’s pain was a routine. So, the family had to go to local community doctor. Doctor prescribed some routine and pain medicines. After a couple of visits when doctor could not rule out anything, he referred Azan to tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Family hardly managed to take him to hospital where a series of diagnostic tests were started. Soon azan was diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma. He was admitted in pediatric oncology unit and his treatment was initiated.

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a very fast-growing tumor. Patients should be admitted to the hospital for rapid workup and diagnostic measures. Chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for this disease. Consultation with a hematologist and oncologist should be obtained as soon as possible. 

It is critical to closely monitor serum chemistries in patients with Burkitt lymphoma (BL), especially during chemotherapy because of the high risk of tumor lysis syndrome and uric acid nephropathy. Prophylactic allopurinol and aggressive hydration with urine alkalinization should be administered.

 Azan’s chemotherapy was started few days ago, but he got sick suddenly and his chemo had to be held. Currently he has bad chest and is oxygen dependent and I met him today in this condition. He is lying straight in bed with oxygen mask on. He can hear and understand everything but lying helplessly.

His mother is worried and is unable to figure out what she should for her child. She cannot stay full time with her suffering son as she had to look after the rest of the family including 3 years old youngest one. Azan’s aunt used to stay with him at night and his mother comes in morning.

Azan is a cute, innocent child who is unable to express even his agony. He is lying still, watching and feeling every pain he is having. I am unable to forget Azan’s facial expression and restlessness of his mother I saw today.

I need lots of sincere prayers for Azan’s health. Let’s pray for health, happiness, and successful treatment of Azan, and all suffering children. Aameen

I pray for healthy and smooth recovery of all our warriors, May Allah heal them. Aameen

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity.

Warriors and Survivors - 36

 

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog #36

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

I am extremely sad after meeting Thirteen years old Rehan today. He is such a brave heart and a true warrior. Rehan is fighting his battle against cancerfor more than two years. And it seems now thatit’s very difficult for him to win this battle.

Two and half years ago, 11 years old Rehan got abdominal pain.It was a usual pain and settled after some time. But in the next few days, abdominal pain was routine. Soon he got intermittent fever too. Parents took him to local physician who prescribed him few medicines. Rehan did not get better. Upon follow up, poor child was referred to pediatric hospital.

Rehan had to undergo few tests and soon it revealed that his abdominal pain is not usual. He had to go for many investigations later. Heart breaking news of Cancer was given to his parents. Poor parents who belong to small town Pattoki, about 80km from Lahore, could hardly listen the news that their Child is having Adenocarcinoma of colon.

Rehan’s chemotherapy was started.Having chemo was very difficult for Rehan, but being a brave child he  completed two courses. Rehan was losing weight and it was not a favourable condition for his surgery. Poor child continued fighting with his will power.

After six chemotherapy cycles,Rehan went for surgery. He got a successful surgery and his treatment continued once again. He had to undergo radiation therapy as well. All of these therapeutic modes are frightening for an 11 yearsold child. But Allah has bestowed special courage to Rehan that he was able to face all such treatment phases.

Rehan belongs to a poor family of Pattoki. He has a younger brother and a sister. His father is on daily wages, and it is the biggest trial for him. Adult male child is considered father’s right hand in our society, but it is hard luck of an industrious father that his right hand got such a horrific disease.

Chemotherapy was started again for Rehan. He completed further six cycles. Bearing a single chemotherapy is worst experience a child can have. This brave heart received twelve chemotherapy cycles. He has been on Oral immunotherapy as well.

So far, he is not getting any better. His disease has spread again and hold your heart to know that poor child is on Palliation now.

He is in extreme pain and on narcotic pain-relieving medications. I adjusted his Patch today to give him some relief. But his pain is still there. He has lost considerable weight, but he speaks bravely.

I am in pain since I met him and his mother. We as humans are not able to do much except our small efforts but Allah has given us the power of prayer. We can pray for Rehan, we can pray for some miracle that would save his life.

We pray for health, happiness, and success of Rehan,and all suffering children. Aameen

I pray for healthy and smooth recovery of all our warriors, May Allah heal them. Aameen

 

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity.

 

 

 

Warriors and Survivors - 35

 

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 35

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

Couple of days ago, when I was in the lift going to my work area, I saw a patient who was with her mother. Both were heading towards their room in oncology unit. I noticed unusual blisters on her both hands and asked about them. She replied that it’s due to her chemotherapy.

She is 14 years old Noor, patient of Acute lymphocytic leukemia. Noor is resident of Lahore and belongs to upper middle-class family. Her father runs his business, and she is the eldest daughter of the family.

Two years ago, she developed swelling on her left eye. Swelling did not reduce even after symptomatic treatment. She started having on and off fever with malaise and body pain. Parents thought she gets tired due to school and tried to improve her diet. Noor’s problem was persistent, and parents consulted senior physician. After some tests physician referred her to children hospital for complete investigation.

Here in children’s hospital, Noor had to go through many investigations and eventually, the doctors gave her the shocking news: Noor had acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Her little body was riddled with blood cancer.

Her treatment started in children’s hospital, and she patiently bore two cycles of chemotherapy. During third cycle, she developed skin rash as an adverse effect of chemotherapy. Soon this rash turned into vesicles and her upper limbs were full of it. No need to say that it was too painful and troublesome. Her chemotherapy had to be held twice due to adverse reactions. But still, she is fighting with disease and chemotherapy too. She says bearing chemotherapy sometimes is worse than having cancer.

Noor has gone through four cycles of chemotherapy so far. Noor is a fun-loving little girl with an irrepressible sense of humour. Strong and determined, her courage inspires all those who know her. Even she looks miserable with so many vesicles in both hands and scar on left eye but she Masha Allah is determined to fight her disease.

Noor is student of grade eight and she wants to be a teacher one day. Her condition got worse twice during treatment, but she recovered. It’s been said that it’s her will power that helps her along with Allah’s blessings.

Her mother talked about her that Noor never complained about having cancer, but she wished that no child ever had to go through cancer treatment like she is going through.

Imagine, when treatment itself is source of trouble instead of relief and patient is young child with delicate body and soul.

We have more than 60 oncology inpatients at a given time and every child has an unforgotten story. It’s painful to be with them but one cannot be away from them after meeting these pure souls. I pray for healthy and smooth recovery of all our warriors, May Allah heal them. Aameen

We pray for health, happiness, and success of Noor and all suffering children. Aameen

 

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity.

Warriors and Survivors - 34

 Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 34

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

Today I am happy after meeting a very lively and obedient child, Muskan. She is now 16 years old, and she is just admitted in first year in college. She passed her 10^th grade with good marks recently.  She looks quite younger than her age.

The Family belongs to Chakwal basically but living in Lahore since few years. Three years ago, when she was thirteen years old, there was a swelling in her neck. The parents consulted the doctor and he started treatment of Goiter.

Despite treatment and all the care, her swelling did not reduce, and she was having body pain and fever as well. The doctor referred her to tertiary care children hospital. She needed biopsy and more tests for complete diagnosis. She was diagnosed as Hodgkins Lymphoma of mixed cellularity in late 2018.

It was not usual news for the family. This news meant that the whole family was going to suffer for next few years in many ways. Her father was rickshaw driver in Chakwal, and he had five kids including youngest twins. Muskan is the eldest. For a father who is on daily wages with five kids, the very thought of going outstation for cancer treatment of his eldest daughter was painful. Finally, the family had to go through it.

To their good luck, the family met our very well known Baji Farida. She advised the family to shift to Lahore and supported them. Muskan’s father started driving rickshaw in Lahore and Muskan’s treatment began in children’s hospital. Baji Farida supported the family in many ways, she hired rickshaw services of Muskan’s father and helped in children’s schooling as well. For an outsider, it all was a great help.

Muskan went through Hodgkin’s treatment for three years, from 2018 to march 2021. Many people helped them throughout. She has recovered from disease Alhamdulillah and she is on regular follow up these days. I met her during her follow up visit and I am delighted to see her healthy and happy. 

Muskan says, “it was not easy for all of us”. “Only treatment itself was too painful for me”, she said. The family’s suffering was another issue. But Allah has His ways, He helped the family a lot.

Today Masha Allah Muskan has recovered from her disease, and she is studying further in a college in Lahore. She has dreams for higher education and wants to be a banker. Her other younger siblings are also school going. Her cancer has changed the family’s life altogether, but the change has proved good so far. We pray that Muskan remains healthy and happy forever. May her disease never come back and may she fulfill her dreams of her life and family. Aameen.

Philanthropists and social workers are blessings for any society. There are many people around us who need help and support. We can change many lives if we work sincerely.

 

We pray health, happiness, and success of Muskan and all suffering children. Aameen

 

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity.

 

 

 

 

Warriors and Survivors - Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 33

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

Cancer is terrible disease for all pediatric populations no matter what the age of the child is. But it is extremely heartbreaking when child is as young as one year.

My today’s warrior is just 13-month-old Haleema, who is so cute that you can’t stop looking at her. But to her bad luck, she is diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma of bladder. She is the only child of her parents and a resident of Lahore.

Rhabdomyosarcoma  (also known as RMS) is a type of Sarcoma cancer that affects the muscles that are attached to the bone. Rhabdomyosarcoma tumours occur mostly around the head and neck. RMS is the most common type of soft tissue sarcoma to occur in childhood, accounting for 53 percent of cases.

Three months ago, Haleema developed rashes just like children of this or younger age develop. It was normal so at first her mother treated her with rash creams but when she did not get better, she was taken to local physician for check up. Doctor advised some creams and sent home. But Haleema’s problem persisted, and her mother noticed that she had pain while urination. Haleema was taken to a tertiary care hospital where doctors said that she had developed fungal infection and diagnosed as UTI, she was treated with antifungal along with UTI treatment. After 15 days treatment she got better and was sent home.

After couple of weeks or so she again had pain and inflammation while urination. Moreover, this time her abdomen swelled. She was having intense pain while urination and a swollen abdomen. Her parents got worried and approached hospital again, Doctors gave medications and started multiple investigation to find the real cause of her pain. In Ultrasound a mass was revealed in her bladder and near ureters.

She was referred to Pediatric urology unit of tertiary care hospital for further work up and treatment. On biopsy, RMS (Rhabdomyosarcoma of bladder and ureter) was diagnosed, and she was sent to Pediatric oncology unit for treatment.

By now, we all know how difficult cancer treatment and chemotherapy are and specially for a one-year-old child who had been on many treatments since few months. Her treatment has started and it is her first course. she is hardly tolerating chemotherapy. First, she had extensive vomiting despite all the necessary precautions, and now her kidney function has started deteriorating, it seems she will be needing dialysis to go for further chemotherapy.

When we look at Haleema, she seems in so much pain that she even refuses chocolates and candies. She is not interested in any toy as well. It seems she has lost interest in everything around, things which are attractive to a child of this age are meaningless to her.

Her mother said she had lost four kg weight in last few months; she was more attractive before disease but pain had changed her a lot.

No doubt her case is very difficult; she is too weak to bear treatment and its side effects. Moreover, her kidney function is not good as well. She is the only child of her parents, and she has a whole life ahead. It is very difficult for a female child with such a disease at a very young age.

 

We pray for ease and healthy life of Haleema and all suffering children. Aameen

 

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity.

 

 

 

Warriors and Survivors - 32

 

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 32

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

 

Amid lot of pain and disappointment Let’s talk about some hope and discuss a success story. Today I met a 13-year-old Asad, a cancer survivor to requested him to share his experience about his disease and treatment. Below is what he said.

I was shy always, I used to stay at home and play video games and read books. I was never a sports person but whenever I tried I could not do better.

Parents consulted doctors worried about my growth and strength, later I was put on multivitamins and supplements to help in my growth and strength. I used that for many months but nothing improved. Three years before my right leg began to hurt near the knee. Later I noticed my leg starting to swell up and I informed my mother. She consulted doctor. After multiple visits and a lot number of tests, x-rays and other difficult investigations it revealed that it is tumor that is reason of my leg swelling and broken bone and doctors named it osteosarcoma. I was referred to tertiary care oncology center for treatment.

My treatment started here, it included lot of heavy chemotherapy and very difficult tests like bone scan and a CT scan and it is very difficult to bear the chemotherapy alone, scans are scary too. It’s too difficult to describe pain of bearing chemotherapy, but by grace of Almighty I completed chemo cycles and it was very disappointing to know after post chemo scans that osteosarcoma spread in the neighboring bones.

I had to go through bone scan and a CT scan multiple times, and then labs, and waiting for the labs is too troublesome to describe. Waiting for the test result to come normal is more than waiting for exam result.

Later my leg had to be amputated above the knee and I was on wheelchair for some time than my parents helped me with prosthesis. I cannot describe my feeling when my leg was amputated. It was like my life is going to end. Later I had to go through physical therapy to adjust with my prosthesis.

 

 

After another round of chemotherapy I was cleared of any sign of cancer and it was declared that my treatment is completed. My parents and family were too happy for me and I am not sure about my feeling. Whether I should be happy for successful treatment or sad for losing my leg for always in all years to come of my life.

No doubt my life will never be same again but to be honest I am happy that Allah cured me of such a horrible disease as I have seen many children younger than me suffering different kind of cancers and their lives are miserable. I am grateful to Allah who saved me from this terrible disease and thankful for the support of my parents, family and all hospital staff who worked hard for my treatment and cure. I pray that Allah grant health to every cancer patient.

 

We pray for healthy life of Asad and all suffering children. Aameen

 

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity.

 

 

 

Warriors and Survivors - 31

 

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 31

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

 

Ibrahim was extremely well, extremely active, and healthy till one and a half years of his age. He is the only son of his parents and apple of eye for the entire family. His parents prayed for a long time for him.

In early July, Ibrahim had a boil on his face which slowly got bigger and covered his whole right cheek near nose. It was also very painful. His mother decided to go to local physician. Physician said, “I think you should go to ER straight away.” So, her mother went straight to local hospital’s emergency without any further delay.

Doctors in emergency evaluated him and informed that some blood tests were needed before resection of the mass. Ibrahim was referred to a tertiary care hospital in Lahore for further treatment.

Parents took him to Lahore from Gujranwala. After necessary investigations, his mass was resected and after few days of post surgery treatment he was discharged, and Ibrahim left for home happily. Parents were happy too for the recovery of their only son.

After only a month, the poor child started having same problem again, and gradually the same mass appeared on the same location. The mother was extremely worried and concerned as Ibrahim was hardly three years old and he had faced a long disease and treatment in such a young age. But she did not know that there was another trial ahead they had to face.

Ibrahim’s parents consulted the doctor again and he advised multiple investigations as per the case. After many tests, worst news was given to Ibrahim’s parents “your child has cancer”

Ibrahim was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, which is a type of sarcoma. Sarcoma is cancer of soft tissue (such as muscle), connective tissue (such as tendon or cartilage), or bone. Rhabdomyosarcoma usually begins in muscles that are attached to bones and help the body move, but it may begin in many places in the body.

Ibrahim’s treatment and chemotherapy was started in September and the little angel is bearing the therapy so far. In fact, a three-year-old angel does not know what he is going through. He just knows that he is not at home, and he does not like it to be in hospital at any cost.

Ibrahim used to be friendly and loving child, he used to play around and meet people but now he is different as he has been through a lot. His disease has changed him. He is afraid of people now. He thinks anyone coming to him might inject him some medicine or take him for some test. He is always angry and wants to go home.

His mother says, nothing is normal, nothing is comforting, nothing is regular. Everything is irregular and seems useless. It seems life is on hold, and all that matters is making Ibrahim as comfortable and happy as he can be. His mother wishes to make Ibrahim’s stay as comfortable and joyful as she can.

Seeing one’s child suffering with such a horrific illness is very difficult, and the pain is immense when he is too young to understand his condition.

 

We all pray for smooth recovery of Ibrahim and all children like him. Aameen

 

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity.

 

Warriors and Survivors - 30

 

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 30

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

Whenever I meet and talk to a child and his or her family, I keep thinking for hours about how can I ease them,  I try to do what is possible though it may not be much. Obviously, there are number of factors I can’t control, and I am directly not involved in many. But I do whatever I can do in my domain. There are a lot of miseries and complications associated with the treatment of chronic illnesses like cancer.

We need a strong heart and mind to meet and treat all patients who are suffering silently. I met 10 years old Sajeel and his parents today, and I still remember their painful and hopeful eyes. The family belongs to Bhakkar, a town near Faisalabad. Sajeel’s father works as barber in Bhakkar. The parents cannot speak proper language here. They have four children and Sajeel is a middle child. It’s not hard to understand their grief.

Few months back, Sajeel had recurrent fever and fits, He was playing when he got fits, parents took him to doctor in Bhakkar, who gave him initial treatment and sent him home. Sajeel had again same episode of fits and recurrent fever. Parents consulted doctor again and he referred Sajeel to Allied hospital Faisalabad. Sajeel’s initial treatment and investigations began in hospital and his fever and overall health improved. After necessary tests and investigations doctor broke the bad news to Sajeel’s parents that their child was having blood cancer. Sajeel was sent to Lahore for treatment and further investigations.

The poor family managed to travel to Lahore somehow. Moving to an unknown city, leaving three children behind, and stopping daily wage with such a horrible news of one’s life is surely not an easy task. Parents do whatever they can to protect their child, no matter whatever resources they have, Sajeel’s parents are still doing the same without considering their financial status. In Children’s hospital Sajeel was diagnosed as a case of high-risk B-cell ALL and he was put on completion of Induction.

His treatment started and he was sent home after initiation of chemotherapy. It was advised that he would come and have his chemo in Chemobay on scheduled days, but after couple of weeks Sajeel developed cough and difficulty in breathing, he had to travel again to Lahore and had to be admitted due to his sick condition. His treatment was started, and it was found out that he had fungal pneumonia. He is still on treatment for ten days.

  

Sajeel is doing better these days. His first cycle is about to complete but seeing his condition it is still a long way to go. In this one-month, multiple visits to other city has brought many hardships for the poor family and they still don’t know for how long they will have to face hardship.

Sajeel is silent and there is pain in his eyes, no one can imagine how much his little heart is afraid of his disease, his pain and agony he is facing since couple of months.

We humans only can try to treat well and counsel and pray, health is always from Allah. I pray that May Allah bring health and smooth recovery for Sajeel and ease for his family and all the families who are suffering in silence.

 

 

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity

 

Warriors and Survivors - 29

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 29

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

Yesterday I met a seven-year-old young girl sitting in complete silence, with her head down. Her head was covered with scarf, and she was looking too sad. Unconsciously I kept an eye on her, she hardly responded to anyone, even to her mother.  I tried to break the silence and initiate talk with her, but she did not reply and kept her head down. Her mother said that she was an active and lively child otherwise.

Zainab is seven years old child, a student of class two. She is resident of interior Lahore city and has three siblings. Her father works on daily wages, and he is making enough to educate his children.

Few months ago, Zainab developed a pea sized macule near right ear that was painful. A local doctor drained it and gave antibiotics. But it did not heal, got enlarged and ulcerated later. Parents took her to Mayo hospital, Doctors there did initial investigation and sent her to Pediatric oncology unit for lymphoma workup.

In oncology unit of pediatric hospital, she was diagnosed as a case of ‘high risk Anaplastic large cell lymphoma’. Zainab’s difficult journey started when her treatment and chemotherapy began few months ago. Her mother said, Zainab didn’t cry when she was told the news as at that time, she didn’t know what was wrong and what could be the future with this disease.

She bravely went through chemotherapy and never cried out of pain or fear so far. But she is silent, does not complain either.

Her mother says, Zainab used to be a brilliant and talkative child who loved to play with her friends and dolls. She was a very good and favorite student of her teachers. But due to ongoing treatment her studies are on hold, and she had lost interest in playing too.

“Zainab has got too many dolls, but she does not play with her toys now. She remains quiet and does not show interest in anything, a complete change in behavior for her due to her ailment. Her mother said. “When people talked about sick children, I always expected a child would be bedridden every day, but it’s not like that. The symptoms are so bad some days that Zainab is bedridden, whereas on other days, she is like any other normal 07 year old child.  Disease has changed her altogether and it is more painful that she is suffering in both ways”, She told.

Zainab has completed her first chemotherapy cycle and is receiving the second one. She is lucky enough so far to get all the necessary medicines easily from hospital and the hospital is in their easy access that make it convenient for her family to reach for multiple visits.  

Being high risk cancer patient, Zainab is on high dose chemotherapy and this treatment usually has its adverse effects too. Poor child is bearing it silently so far.  No one can imagine the depth of her pain and sorrow of her parents.

It is just the start of her painful journey. We pray for Zainab’s strength to bear the treatment and prayers for her parents energy and morale. May Zainab complete her treatment and recover soon. May she be lively again and enjoy her childhood once again. Aameen

 

 

Note: Names have been changed to protect identity

 

Warriors and Survivors -28

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 28

I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in 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.

 

It’s heart wrenching when some one’s only son is diagnosed with a horrible disease like cancer, and at such a tender age. Wahaj is only four and half years old and the poor soul is having cancer. He is the only son of his parents and has two sisters. He belongs to middle class family of Sialkot. Today’s story is mostly described by his mother as Wahaj is too young to express his feelings.

 

Wahaj started having constipation with abdominal distention and fever few months back. Upon check up and subsequent investigations, Wahaj was diagnosed with Burkitts Lymphoma, a very aggressive cancer, at the age of four in April 2021.

 

Her mother says, at that point in time, within seconds, our life shattered and fell apart.  No one can ever prepare you for the pain and total devastation when you are told: “I’m really sorry but your son has cancer”.

She said, ‘I fell to the floor screaming whilst my husband stood listening to our consultant in total shock with tears’. Since then our cancer journey started as we were admitted to oncology Ward at Children’s hospital, for the proper diagnosis and start of his very intensive chemotherapy. ‘The emotions we pass through are so very hard to describe and we shed constant tears’.

In the ward,  we found our strength with support from the other inspirational families and their brave children, and also the incredible staff helping us.  She said, ‘we could never have prepared ourselves for how ill our precious little boy was to become before getting better’. The temperatures, the hair loss, loss of control of his bladder and bowels, his facial palsy, the sickness, infections and so much more. The mucositis he suffered with was horrific, he had ulcers all over his mouth and down throughout his body. He couldn’t talk, couldn’t eat, couldn’t drink, couldn’t open his mouth, couldn’t move and he must have been in terrible pain and felt so ill. It was heart-breaking, and we were helpless. He was hooked up to so many things to help him through alongside his chemotherapy, anti-sickness, high dose IV morphine, high dose IV paracetamol, IV antibiotics.

 

Wahaj’s two chemotherapy cycles completed, he was sent home and asked to appear before start of next cycle. He went through further chemotherapy cycles with similar experience, and no doubt it was not easy not only for Wahaj but for all of them.

His mother said, ‘I don’t think Wahaj fully understands what he has been through as he is still so young and was diagnosed at the age of three years. We have a box of things dedicated to his journey and one day when he is old enough, we will show Wahaj and tell him his story. Every day we tell him how brave he is, he is our superhero and that he is capable of achieving anything in life.

Wahaj is so loving, never stops smiling and is so full of fun and energy. At such an early age, he has learned so many important lessons about life.

His new chemo cycle has started and now he enjoys going to hospital to see everyone who made him better and his ward friends. The hospital is a second home and his safe place but still sometimes when he is in pain, he asks to go home to meet his father.

While the world continues to battle the pandemic, Wahaj and family are feeling very fortunate that they are all going to home and staying safe after completing another cycle of chemotherapy. His treatment continues and his mother is hopeful and says, “We are looking forward to the brighter times ahead of us and creating lot more memories with our son, our very own real life superhero”.

 

We pray for the ease and complete recovery of Wahaj. Aameen