Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 194
Understanding Pediatric Leukemia: The Story of an Eight-Year-Old
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects blood cells, and when it affects children, it is known as pediatric leukemia. In this blog, we will explore the journey of an eight-year-old boy diagnosed with pediatric leukemia while providing information on the diagnosis and treatment challenges that comes with cancer diagnosis.
The Diagnosis
Faraz started having unusual fatigue, bruises and frequent fevers. Concerned about his condition, his parents decided for a thorough check up. An initial blood test reveals a high number of white blood cells, and later further tests and a bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of leukemia.
Leukemia occurs when the body makes too many abnormal white blood cells, which don’t fight infections like they should. Instead, they crowd out healthy blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to various symptoms. In Faraz's case, the diagnosis is acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common type of leukemia in children.
Initial Treatment Steps
After diagnostic confirmation, the next step was to initiate treatment as quickly as possible. For pediatric leukemia, treatment usually involves chemotherapy, which is the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. This initial phase of treatment is crucial because leukemia requires immediate attention to prevent further complications.
Faraz’s chemotherapy journey started in Children hospital. He has been receiving a combination of medications that targets the cancerous cells. The first phase was intense, lasted several weeks. The side effects of chemotherapy can vary greatly from child to child, with some experiencing nausea and fatigue, while others may have an increased risk of infections due to a weakened immune system.
Treatment Challenges
During treatment, both Faraz and his family encountered several challenges. One of the primary difficulties was managing the side effects. Medications helped alleviate some symptoms, but they lead to loss of appetite and changes in mood.
Additionally, the hospital visits were tiring and overwhelming. Frequent blood tests and doctor consultations were necessary to monitor his progress and adjust treatments as needed. The prospect of lengthy hospital stays can be daunting, especially for a child who longs to play and be active again.
Moreover, pediatric leukemia treatment can be emotionally tiring for the family. It’s not just the physical health that is at stake; emotional well-being becomes paramount too. Families sink in worries about the future while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy at home.
Adjustments in Daily Life
As our eight-year-old boy continues his treatment regimen, his family learns to adapt to their new reality. School becomes a challenge, as he misses many days due to hospital stays and doctor appointments. Teachers provide him with the necessary support, allowing him to keep up with his studies through online classes when he feels well enough.
Social activities also take a backseat, as he has to avoid crowded places to protect his fragile immune system. Family and friends are encouraged to visit but are reminded of the importance of hygiene and keeping their distance to ensure his safety.
The Road Ahead
Having cancer at a young age is daunting, but advances in medical care and treatment are making a difference every day. Families affected by pediatric leukemia are learning that with hope and perseverance, Leukemia is curable.
While our eight-year-old boy's battle with leukemia is just beginning, his journey highlights the importance of awareness and understanding about this illness. Together, with love and support, families can navigate this challenging path, one step at a time.
Prayers for young Faraz and his family, May Allah grant him smooth recovery. 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.
