Warriors and Survivors - 160

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 160

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. 

My heart shatters into a million pieces whenever I encounter a teenager battling cancer. The weight of the diagnosis is heavy for anyone to bear, but for adolescents like Azhar, it feels particularly cruel. This is the age when dreams are budding, when their world is full of possibilities waiting to unfold. To face such an illness at this tender age is a nightmare. 

Azhar and his family had a shock when, at just 14 years old, he and his family received the news of his blood cancer diagnosis. No one could believe about this harsh reality that was there. But Azhar had a determination to fight, not just for survival, but for the life he is dreaming.

Cancer treatment journey is usually a rollercoaster of emotions, nothing different for Azhar and his family. From the countless hospital visits to the many rounds of treatment, every step is full of uncertainty. So far, Azhar is determined to fight, but sometimes he seems quiet and thoughtful, he does not share his fears but after all he is just a teen.

For Azhar, the support of his family is his rock, a source of strength and comfort in this time of adversity. His parents, siblings, and extended family rallied around him; their love is a constant reminder that he is not alone in this fight. Their presence transforms the hospital room into warmth and affection, easing Azhar's fears and filling him with courage.

But it isn't just family that is supporting Azhar through his dark days – it was also the support of his friends, and staff at hospital. He has made some friends in hospital too.  

As Azhar's journey continues, he carries with him the memories of those who are with him – the loved ones who held his hand through the darkest nights, the friends who are lifting his spirits with their laughter, and the healthcare heroes who are giving him hope when all seems lost.

Though the road ahead may be long and uncertain, Azhar faces it with courage and resilience. Though 14 years, he is a teen with fear of uncertainty, but he and his parents are fighting may be because they do not have any other option. He and his family need prayers, support and affection. As enduring power of support, love, friendship, and community overcomes life challenges. It is our shared humanity that binds us together, giving us the strength to face whatever may come our way.

Prayers for Azhar’s complete recovery and healthy life. May he recovers quickly and his disease never comes back. 

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.