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.