Warriors and Survivors -127

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 127

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. 

Jawad was only six years old when he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Jawad loves Rubik’s cube and he can solve a Rubik’s cube without a problem. He loves cricket and spending time with his siblings.

In January 2023, Jawad was fighting what seemed like a bad cold. After weeks of fever and medical tests, his family’s concern was growing – after all, he had always been such a healthy kid. Next couple of weeks, the family was busy in hospital visits for Jawad’s tests and treatment.  Later he was referred to children hospital as his symptoms were persistent. At Children hospital, Jawad had to go for most of blood tests to confirm the cause of his persistent symptoms. Because most his tests came back normal, it wasn’t until February that Jawad received an official diagnosis: acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

The next three months revolved around Jawad’s treatment. His treatment regimen was straightforward, and he was fortunate enough not to have any prolonged hospital stays, adverse reactions or secondary conditions. He Is under treatment now; his chemotherapy Induction phase is going on. By the grace of Allah, Jawad is tolerating well his treatment plan so far and he has no need to stay longer at the hospital.

Thankfully, Jawad’s mom and dad are managing the treatment and travelling all the way from outstation. But it is a long treatment and who knows will they be able to continue the treatment with same spirit?

 “We didn’t know how we would cover all the costs, but when you are making these decisions – the life and death of your child – finances fall very low on the list,” his mother says. Fortunately, we have some social worker and philanthropist who help patients and their families financially as well.

With the help of these social worker and philanthropists, many families are managing the travel and living expenses for the treatment of their children. . We are so thankful for them for their help that allows many families the possibility of pursuing a treatment option for their beloved children. Having to make care choices for your child under the worry of financial pressure is something that no family should have to do.”

Prayers for Jawad’s smooth treatment and early recovery. Many prayers for his parents who are going through a very difficult time.  

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.