Warriors and Survivors - 202

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 202

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. 

Fighting the Shadows: Sara’s Journey with T-Cell Leukemia

Today, we take a closer look at the journey of 11-year-old Sara from Pakpattan, who is currently battling T-cell leukemia. She is very innocent child with a pure heart. 

Pediatric leukemia primarily affects children and is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal white blood cells. The most common forms are Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), with T-cell leukemia being a subtype of ALL. This type of leukemia tends to progress rapidly, often requiring immediate treatment. For many children diagnosed with this disease, the journey is filled with painful treatments, hospital visits, and adjustments to their normal life. The disease has poor outcome in underdeveloped countries.

Meet Sara: A Brave Fighter

Sara is no ordinary 11-year-old. Living in the vibrant city of Pakpattan, she is so innocent and loving girl. A rare child with patience, may be her pain has taught her how to be patient. Her life has been changed altogether  since she was diagnosed with T-cell leukemia a little over a year ago.

The Painful Diagnosis

Sara’s trouble began with persistent fatigue and frequent fevers. At first, her parents thought it was just a fever—perhaps the flu. But as her symptoms worsened, they decided to consult doctors. When the  symptoms were continuous, they had to run tests. After numerous tests, the diagnosis of leukemia shattered their world. It was hard for Sara to comprehend what this meant. Just a child, she was suddenly thrust into a difficult adult world of hospitals, treatments, and medical jargon.

The Struggles of Treatment

Sara’s treatment started almost immediately, beginning with chemotherapy. The sessions left her feeling weak, nauseous, and often in pain. The side effects of the medication were daunting. She watched her hair fall out, felt the loss of her energy, and had to deal with the continued sickness. Sara found it especially hard not being able to join her friends and family. Each hospital stay made her feel increasingly isolated.

Her emotions began to spiral as the pressures of her condition mounted. Normally cheerful, Sara found herself battling feelings of sadness and despair. The dreams of an innocent child were clouded by the dark shadows of uncertainty and fear.

Facing Fears and Anxiety

Sara often thinks what if the treatment didn’t work. Would she ever get to play and study again? Would she be able to celebrate her birthday? These thoughts haunted her. Along with fear, Sara battled anxiety about her changing body and the situations that made her feel vulnerable.

She struggled with feelings of inadequacy; she questioned her worth and felt disconnected from her family and friends. The things that once brought her joy, like painting or playing with friends, began to fade as her depression took hold. Her parents watched helplessly as their bright, spirited daughter seemed to dim.

In her toughest moments, Sara found strength through her family and community support. Art therapy became a solace for her, a way to express what she felt inside without needing to say a word. Sara began to channel her energy into creativity. She made drawings in her room, vibrant depictions of far-off places and happy memories, reminding herself that laughter and joy could still exist. 

A Step Toward Tomorrow

Today, Sara remains in treatment. While the journey is ongoing, and her conditions fluctuate, she has a sense of purpose. As her mother counseled her, she has to fight for herself and for her family. She has to continue treatment until she is cured.

Sara’s story not only  gives insights of  the challenges of pediatric leukemia but also the enduring spirit that helps children like Sara fight on.

Lots of prayers for Sara and 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 - 201

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 201

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. 

A Brave Heart: The Journey of a 10-Year-Old Fighting Leukemia

In a small room filled with colorful drawings and toys, there lives a boy - Danial, who is just 10 years old. He is a normal child, and his room might look like any other child's. But the colorful drawings on the walls hide a world filled with struggles and courage, as Danial is facing a battle that no child should ever have to fight: leukemia.

A few months back, Danial’s life took a sudden sad turn. What started as simple fatigue and occasional fevers led to countless doctor visits and tests. But the day they received the diagnosis changed everything. Danial’s mother held his hand tightly as the doctor explained that he had leukemia. The words felt heavy, like a storm cloud hanging over their family.

The Pain of Treatment

Since the diagnosis, Danial’s life revolving around doctor appointments and treatments. Each week brings new challenges: chemotherapy sessions that leave him feeling weak and sick, days spent in the hospital, and countless needles that prick his small arms. He used to enjoy playing cricket with his friends, but now he spends that same time in a hospital bed, feeling weak and sometimes in pain.

Danial’s memories of laughter and fun have been replaced by hospital gowns and IV drips. The exhaustion from treatment steals the energy that once fueled his playful spirit. He often tells his mother that he feels “tired of being tired,” a sentiment that rings true for many who walk this difficult path. It’s heartbreaking to see a child, once filled with dreams of becoming a cricketer, now just wanting to feel “normal” again.

The Emotional Toll

The journey through leukemia isn’t just taxing on the body; it extracts an emotional toll as well. Danial has feelings of sadness and frustration. He misses his friends and the carefree days of riding bikes in the park. Sometimes, he sees other kids playing outside his window and asks, “Why can’t I be out there with them?” His innocence clashes with a harsh reality that he cannot escape.

For his parents, the weight of the diagnosis weighs heavily. They oscillate between hope and despair, battling sleepless nights and a constant worry that scares them. Every time they see their son in pain, their hearts break a little more. They try to keep a positive front, often whispering words of encouragement in hopes of inspiring Danial. But inside, they share a fear that can’t be spoken aloud.

Danial’s younger sister, Maria, also feels the impact of her brother's illness. She’s too young to fully comprehend why Danial can’t play with her as before, but she misses him desperately. Sometimes, she draws pictures of her family, holding hands and smiling; reminders of better days and an unshakable bond.

The Road Ahead

While Danial’s battle is far from over, both he and his family hold onto hope. Each day is an opportunity to face challenges together and create lasting memories. The journey through leukemia is hard, and there are no guarantees, but Danial’s bravery reminds everyone around him of the incredible strength found in love and unity.

Through heartaches and hardships, the road ahead remains intertwined with hope—a hope that fuels not just Danial’s fight, but also the resolve of everyone who loves him. As they navigate this storm together, they know that in the pain and suffering, there lies the possibility of brighter tomorrows. And perhaps, one day, Danial will look back on this time not just with memories of struggle but with a sense of pride in his courage and the love that enveloped him all along.

Lots of prayers for Danial and 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 - 200

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 200

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. 

15th Feb International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day: 

Highlighting the Fight against Childhood Cancer

Every year on February 15th, the world comes together to observe International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day. This day aims to raise awareness about childhood cancer, promote research funding, and advocate for the rights of children suffering from this devastating illness. The significance of this event goes beyond mere acknowledgment; it serves as a platform for education, support, and solidarity with young cancer patients and their families.

Understanding Childhood Cancer

Childhood cancer refers to cancers that occur in individuals aged 0 to 19 years and can manifest in various forms, including leukemia, brain tumors, and sarcomas. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), childhood cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about 1% of all cancers. However, it remains a significant public health issue. In 2020, an estimated 400,000 children and adolescents were diagnosed with cancer worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for increased awareness, support, and research.

The Statistics: A Glimpse into the Numbers

Recent statistics on childhood cancer underscore the importance of awareness and advocacy. The following are critical data points to consider:

• Survival Rates: The global survival rate for childhood cancer has improved significantly over the last few decades. In high-income countries, around 80% of children diagnosed with cancer are now expected to survive five years or more after diagnosis, compared to around 20% in the early 1970s. Conversely, survival rates in low- and middle-income countries remain dishearteningly low, at about 20-60%.

• Types of Cancer: The most common types of childhood cancer include leukemia (28%), brain tumors (26%), and lymphomas (12%). These cancers require specialized treatment plans and early detection for better prognoses.

• Rising Cases: According to research published in 2022, childhood cancer cases have been steadily rising at an average rate of 0.8% per year globally. This increase is particularly prominent in developing countries, where better diagnostics and awareness are leading to more cases being identified.

Recent Progress and Challenges

Over the past decade, notable progress has been made in the field of childhood cancer treatment and research. Developed nations have implemented several initiatives aimed at improving care and outcomes for children with cancer:

1. Enhanced Treatment Protocols: Advances in clinical trials have led to refined treatment protocols, combining chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies tailored to the unique biological characteristics of pediatric tumors.

2. Supportive Care: The growing emphasis on holistic care has resulted in better psychological and social support for children and families navigating cancer treatment. This includes counseling services, educational support, and palliative care.

3. Access to Care: Several global initiatives focus on improving access to cancer care in low- and middle-income countries. Programs like the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer aim to increase the survival rate of children with cancer by providing resources and training for healthcare workers.

However, significant challenges remain, particularly in underdeveloped regions. In many countries, access to proper medical facilities, trained healthcare professionals, and effective treatments is severely limited. For instance, while the WHO reports that about 80% of childhood cancer patients survive in high-income countries, fewer than 30% survive in low-income settings.

The reasons for lower survival rates in LMICs include delay in diagnosis, an inability to obtain an accurate diagnosis, inaccessible therapy, abandonment of treatment, death from toxicity (side effects) and avoidable relapse. In country like Pakistan, latest cancer medications are not even registered and hardly available or they are too costly. Improving access to childhood cancer care, including to essential medicines and technologies, is highly cost-effective, feasible and can improve survival in all income settings. 

Future Predictions: A Hopeful Outlook

As we look to the future, several developments provide hope for combating childhood cancer:

• Advancements in Research: Ongoing research and clinical trials focused on understanding the genetic and molecular basis of childhood cancers will pave the way for more effective treatments and personalized medicine approaches.

• Increased Global Funding: Awareness events like International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day galvanize support and funding for research initiatives, with many charitable organizations and governments recognizing the urgency of childhood cancer awareness.

• Education and Advocacy: Efforts to educate parents, schools, and communities about early warning signs of childhood cancer will enhance early detection, leading to better outcomes.

Conclusion

International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day serves as a crucial reminder of the challenges faced by young cancer patients globally. While immense strides have been made over the past decade in both developed and developing countries, the fight against childhood cancer continues. Raising awareness, advocating for more funding, and supporting families in their battle against cancer are essential steps toward achieving a future where every child has access to the care and support they deserve. Together, through awareness and action, we can illuminate the path toward a brighter future for children battling cancer.

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 - 199

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 199

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. 

Hina’s Light: A Heartwarming Journey of strength

Gujrat is small city of Pakistan where life flows like a river through the narrow streets and vibrant markets, we know an eight-year-old girl named Hina from Gujrat. She was a spark of joy in her family and boundless curiosity. Hina, like many children her age, loved to play with her friends, dream of adventures, and draw pictures of castles and fairies. But a terrible illness has changed everything, she has completely changed now, a hopeless soul who is waiting for some miracle.

Hina had been a fighter since the beginning. After experiencing relentless fatigue and frequent fevers, her parents wisely took her to the local hospital. For a middle-class family like hers, the diagnosis was devastating. Her mother, a dedicated teacher, and her father, who worked tirelessly in a factory, were suddenly thrust into a world of medical terms, treatment options, and uncertainty. Life as they knew it had transformed into something unrecognizable.

The family’s small home, once filled with the sounds of laughter and sibling banter, now carried immense stress. Hina had two siblings: Amir, who was ten, and little Sara, who had just turned six. While they adored their sister, they couldn’t help but feel unsure of what was happening. The family often sat together, yet silence filled the room with a heavy weight, as everyone worried about the future.

As weeks passed, Hina began her treatment. At first, she spent many days in the hospital, where she faced a series of painful procedures with a bravery that amazed all those around her. Having to endure the side effects, she lost her hair, often saying, “Now I’m just like my doll, and she is beautiful!” This innocent comment would bring a smile even to the most troubled faces in the room.

Despite the pain and fear surrounding her, Hina continued to brighten her family’s lives. During the weekends when she was allowed to go home, she would collect her markers and sketch pads, wanting to teach her siblings how to draw. "Drawing makes everything better," she would say, her eyes sparkling with hope. Her small hands moved gracefully, encouraging Amir and Sara to join in the fun. They would giggle and create each other's portraits, which sometimes looked more like strange animals than people, but laughter replaced sadness, if only for a while.

On nights when treatment was heavy, and Hina couldn’t sleep, her mother would sit by her side, reading stories about brave knights and magical lands. Hina listened intently, her imagination soaring even as her body fought against the challenges of her illness. In those moments, her spirit shone brighter than any star, providing comfort to her mother, who hid her own tears behind a brave smile.

One rainy afternoon, Hina helped her siblings make paper boats. They took them to the small stream nearby, watching as they floated away. “You know, these boats are like us,” Hina said, her voice soft yet thoughtful. “They might face lots of challenges in the water, but they always find a way to keep going. We will keep going, too.” Amir and Sara nodded, their worries momentarily replaced with hope.

As Hina continued her journey through palliative care, her family learned valuable lessons from her.  Hina is surrounded by uncertainty these days, though she tries to remain normal. Hina’s heart of courage and joy transcended her illness, teaching her family to embrace every moment and find strength in one another.

In the end, life was not defined by her disease but by the love shared between siblings and the laughter that rang through their home, just as it always had. Hina was much more than a girl battling leukemia; she was a symbol of unwavering hope, a daughter who transformed fear into strength, and a sister who illuminated the lives of those she loved. In the hearts of her family, her light would always shine through, no matter what battles lay ahead.

Prayers for young Hina and her family, May Allah grant him health all her life.  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.