Warriors and Survivors -

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 189

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. 

Zain is only three years old, poor lad only knows the walls of a hospital room and the sterile smell of antiseptic. Diagnosed with Pre-B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), his life has become a constant battle against sickness.

Before his diagnosis, Zain was like any other toddler, crawling around the living room and pointing at everything he found interesting. His laughter was contagious. Families would often gather in the park, and his parents took joy in watching him play with other children, sharing toys and giggles. But that blissful life changed drastically last year when Zain began feeling unwell. What they initially thought a viral diarrhea quickly spiraled into endless doctor visits, tests, and the heartbreaking news of cancer.

Zain’s diagnosis came as a devastating news not only to him but also to his entire family. His mother, Sarah, recalls the day they received the news with an aching heart. “It was as if all the air was knocked out of us,” she says quietly. “We could hardly comprehend what the doctors were telling us. A three-year-old shouldn’t have to hear that he has cancer.”

With Pre-B ALL, Zain's immune system is compromised. He often experiences fatigue and extreme weakness due to the treatment. After multiple rounds of chemo, his body requires time to recover, but that recovery comes with its own set of challenges.

Zain’s days are filled with medical jargon, hospital visits, and unfamiliar faces. One of the hardest aspects for Zain is adjusting to an NG (nasogastric) tube due to his inability to take nutrients orally. This small tube running from his nose to his stomach is vital for his survival, but it also serves as a constant reminder that he is different from other kids his age. The soft, playful world of toddlers has been replaced by feelings of discomfort and confinement.

The emotional burden of this illness extends beyond Zain. His parents often wrestle with feelings of helplessness and fear. They try their best to maintain a positive environment; however, nights filled with worry gradually turn into sleepless nights. The financial strain of medical bills adds to their stress, leading to difficult conversations about how to provide for their family while ensuring Zain receives the best care.

Zain's siblings, though young, feel the weight of the situation. They often tell their parents they miss their little brother's playfulness, and they long for the days when life was uncomplicated. 

Despite the immense challenges, Zain's family has found strength in their community. Friends and extended family have rallied around them, helping with meals, watching the other children, and providing emotional support. They have also connected with other families facing similar challenges, finding solace in shared experiences and the reminder that they are not alone in this fight.

“There are days when I feel like I am losing hope, but then I remember the strength of the people around us,” Father explains. Their unwavering support acts as a lifeline, giving them the courage to face another day.

For now, Zain may be confined to beds draped in white sheets, but his spirit shines brightly. His family’s love continues to battle alongside him every step of the way. Each day may be a struggle, but within those struggles lies an unbreakable bond and an unwavering hope for a healthier, brighter tomorrow.

Lots of prayers for young Zain and his family, May Allah make their future easy. 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 - 188

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 188

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. 

Northern Pakistan, land of brave people has many real-life stories that are worth sharing for because of the courageous lessons and  heartfelt tales. 14-year-old Saba admitted in palliative care belongs to northern Pakistan a land of beauty. For the past few years, Saba has been battling leukemia, a challenging form of cancer that has taken a tremendous toll on her young body, her family, and her dreams. As her story unfolds, we witness a brave girl and her family, facing reality with grace and acceptance, despite the pain and hardships.

When Saba was first diagnosed with leukemia, her family was hopeful. They sought treatment in local hospitals and traveled to larger cities for specialized care. The doctors were attentive, and Saba bravely endured the harsh side effects of chemotherapy, her family supporting her every step of the way.  But as time went on, the hope they initially felt began to dwindle. The treatments that were supposed to bring Saba back to health seemed to be failing. The family's resources became strained under the weight of the medical costs, travel, and endless tests. Despite their efforts, Saba’s health began to decline further.

Recently, Saba’s doctors made a difficult decision—her chemotherapy treatments would no longer continue. Instead, she would receive palliative care as her disease seems no longer treatable, which focuses on providing relief from symptoms and improving her quality of life. It was a bitter moment for her family; they understood that this shift meant they were entering a new phase of Saba's journey.

Palliative care emphasizes comfort and support. For Saba, this means she can spend her remaining time with less suffering. It allows her to focus on being with her family, sitting quietly by the window watching the rain fall, or sharing laughter with her siblings—memories that hold a significance beyond words.

Living in a remote village imposes its challenges. There are no luxury hospitals nearby, and healthcare resources are stretched thin. Saba’s family has put everything they have into funding her treatment. 

The emotional distress weighs heavily on Saba’s parents. They grieve for the daughter they see fading away, and the life they had envisioned for her. 

Saba dreams of taking a trip to the mountains she loves, but her condition limits her physical abilities. Instead, she finds comfort in storytelling, sharing tales of bravery and adventure with her siblings, keeping their spirits high. This is where her enchanting smile shines the brightest, even in the face of sorrow.

The road ahead for Saba and her family remains uncertain. Each day comes with its own set of challenges, but love is a powerful force. Saba's family remains committed to giving her the best possible care, not only medically but also emotionally. No matter what they do and how brave everyone is, seeing a child dying slowly is unimaginable feeling. May no one ever has to face it. 

Lots of prayers for young Saba and her family, May Allah make their future easy. 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 -187

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 187

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 has a way of throwing challenges at us when we least expect them. For 12-year-old Jamal and his family, the challenge came as a diagnosis that no one wants to hear: Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). This is Jamal's story—a story of bravery, family, and the road to healing.

It was a regular Tuesday when Jamal first complained of feeling tired and achy. His mother thought he might just be coming down with the flu. However, when the symptoms continued for weeks—resulting in occasional bruises and frequent nosebleeds—she decided it was time to see a doctor. After a series of blood tests and a trip to the hospital, the chilling words "acute myeloid leukemia" echoed in their ears.

For Parents, it felt like the world had stopped. How would they cope? Their son was only 12 years old, and the thought that he had cancer was unfathomable. They educated themselves about AML, learning that children with this type of cancer often face a tough fight, and the road ahead would be long and challenging.

After discussing treatment options with the doctors, the family agreed on a plan. Jamal would start chemotherapy immediately. The very thought of her son undergoing such intense treatment broke mother’s heart. She held back tears, trying to keep a brave face for Jamal. Together, they packed a bag for his hospital stay, making sure to include his favorite comic books and a stuffed bear for comfort.

As the weeks went by, the reality set in. Jamal experienced various side effects—nausea, hair loss, and fatigue. Yet, through it all, he maintained a positive attitude. He often smiled and joked, saying, “At least I get free ice cream from the hospital!” While those around him felt anxious, Jamal made it a little easier for everyone by focusing on the small joys.

Jamal’s illness affected the entire family. His parents often found themselves overwhelmed by hospital visits, treatment schedules, and the emotional toll. Mother had to take a leave of absence from work, leaving finances tight. They were fortunate to have some support from relatives, but there were days when the stress felt unmanageable.

His father would take shifts at the hospital, trying to balance work commitments with being there for his son. “Every day is a new challenge,” he confessed. “But we have to stay strong for Jamal.” They learned to lean on each other, finding strength in their love and dedication to their son.

Every few weeks, the family returned to the hospital for checkups and more treatment. They had begun to understand the medical jargon and routines, but uncertainties still prevailed. There were discussions about blood counts, remissions, and what would happen if the treatment didn’t work as planned.

Jamal faced each hospital visit with peace, even when things were tough. He wore colorful hats to cover his bald head and made friends with other young patients. Despite the grim circumstances, they managed to share laughs, stories, and, at times, tears.

The family also learned to find joy in small moments. Family game nights became a tradition, even if it was just with cards at the hospital. Mother started a journal to document their experiences, both the good and the difficult, and she encouraged Jamal to share his thoughts and feelings.

As of today, Jamal is still undergoing treatment, but he remains hopeful. The road ahead is long, and he knows AML is a tough opponent. However, Jamal has proven to be a fighter. He dreams of going back to school, playing basketball with his friends, and living life to the fullest.

As Jamal continues to fight his battle, his story serves as an inspiration—a heartfelt reminder that, with courage, hope, and the support of family, one can face even the greatest challenges.

Lots of prayers for young Jamal and his family, may Allah make their future easy. 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 - 186

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 186

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 a small, brightly colored room at the Children’s Hospital, a five-year-old boy Usman Ghani sits on the edge of his bed, with lots of innocence in his eyes. Born with the joyous spirit, he often finds joy in the little things—a wooden toy truck, colorful markers, and the sweet sound of his mother’s voice. But lately, his life has taken a challenging turn.

Usman was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects bones or soft tissues around the bones. This diagnosis came after persistent pain in his left shoulder had forced his parents into hospital and doctor visits and sleepless nights filled with worry. 

When the sad news was delivered, it felt as if time stood still for his family. There was no preparation for this moment; it was a storm they never saw coming.

His mother, Fatima, recalls that day with a heavy heart. “The doctor’s words echoed in my mind, ‘Ewing Sarcoma.’ I had heard about cancer, but my little boy—how could this happen?” She fights back tears, shaking her head in disbelief.

For Fatima and her husband, the emotional toll of the diagnosis was overwhelming. The “what-ifs” and “whys” swirled in their minds like a thunderstorm. They experienced a haunting blend of fear, sadness, and helplessness, emotions that often surface like waves on a stormy sea. The couple spent many sleepless nights, holding each other close, whispering words of comfort, and searching for strength they never knew they had.

Beyond the fear for Usman’s health, they had to accept the reality of treatment—chemotherapy, surgeries, and the daunting road ahead. Each time Usman had another visit for treatment, his parents would brace themselves, heartened only by their shared love. “We take it day by day,” his father, Ahmed, says softly. “For Usman, we have to be strong.”

Usman, in his own little world, often takes things in stride. Children have a remarkable capacity to adapt and show resilience. During his treatment, while bearing his pain, he found solace in his favorite cartoons, and the joy of playing with his stuffed animal, Mr. Bear. His laughter often lightens the atmosphere in the hospital room, bringing smiles to the faces of the anxious nurses and tired parents.

Usman’s family has found tremendous support from an unexpected community. The hospital staff has not only been his caretakers but also his champions. From the doctors who explain treatments with patience to the playful nurses who engage him with games, they have created a nurturing environment that fosters healing beyond just physical treatment.

As Usman continues his treatments, each day brings new challenges. There are tough days filled with nausea, loss of appetite, and the ache of being confined to a hospital room. Yet amidst it all, there is an undercurrent of hope that fuels his parents’ determination. They know that Ewing Sarcoma has no easy answers, but each positive moment, each smile, and each little victory is a step towards healing.

Usman's battle with Ewing Sarcoma is just beginning, but with every passing day, there is a glimmer of hope—a reminder that light can emerge from the darkest of days.

Lots of prayers for young Usman and his family, May Allah make their future easy. 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 - 185

Warriors and Survivors - Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 185

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 every hospital, behind the sterile walls and the beeps of machines, live the heartwarming stories of resilience, hope, and sometimes, deep sorrow. Today, we remember a young boy named Asad, who bravely fought against T cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) but unfortunately lost his battle too soon.

Asad was just seven years old when his life took a sad turn. Initially, he was a lively child, full of dreams and laughter. He loved playing cricket with his friends and was known for his playful spirit. But as time went on, his parents noticed he was getting tired more quickly than usual. After several visits to the doctor and some tests, they received the news that would forever change their lives—Asad was diagnosed with T cell ALL.

T cell ALL is a type of blood cancer that affects white blood cells. The diagnosis was a  shock for his family, and they were pushed into a world filled with hospitals, treatments, and a language that felt foreign. Many nights were spent discussing options, undergoing chemotherapy, and battling the side effects that came with it. 

For two long years, Asad dedicated himself to fighting this illness. He went through countless chemotherapy sessions, reluctantly took medication, and faced each day with bravery in his tender age. His parents kept their faith, celebrating every small step forward—every time he felt better. 

However, the realities of this difficult disease and its treatment began to weigh heavily on Asad’s weak body. Complications arose that no amount of courage could fight. Infections, a common risk in children undergoing chemotherapy, surfaced. Despite his physicians’ care, Asad developed a severe complication that led to his swift decline.

Asad was admitted to the ICU, surrounded by the beeping of machines. It was a place filled with heavy emotions—hope intermingled with fear. His family, heartbroken yet hopeful, sat by his side, holding his hand and speechless. Asad would open his eyes just a little wider, as if recognizing the warmth in their silence. Those moments were gold, sustaining his family as they walked this heartbreaking path together.

This had become a heavy battle for Asad. His precious spirit began to fade away. He peacefully slipped away, surrounded by the warmth of his family’s love. It was a moment none of them was truly prepared for, yet one that came in silence, marked by an overwhelming sense of loss and sorrow.

Asad’s life, although cut tragically short, left a profound impact on everyone around him. His family, friends, and even the medical staff who attended to him. I still remember his last day in ICU. In their grief, Asad's mother decided to honor his memory by raising awareness about T Cell ALL and advocating for better support systems for families facing similar challenges. 

Lots of prayers for young Asad and his family, May Allah make their future easy. 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.