Warriors and Survivors -150

 Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 150

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. 

Pediatric Neuroblastoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that often affects children under the age of five. However, for 12-year-old Hassan, the journey to his diagnosis was not smooth, ultimately leading to the discovery of this life-altering condition. Despite the challenges he faced, Hassan's resilience and the unwavering support of his family and medical team have been instrumental in his courageous fight against this horrible disease. 

Hassan's journey began with a series of unexplained vomiting episodes, leaving his concerned parents searching for answers. Initially dismissed as gastritis, Hassan's symptoms persisted, prompting further investigation. A subsequent diagnosis of hemangioma provided temporary relief, but Hassan's symptoms persisted, signaling that something more sinister may be at play.

After enduring months of uncertainty and misdiagnosis, Hassan's medical team ordered a battery of tests to uncover the root cause of his symptoms. It was during this process that the unthinkable was revealed: Hassan was diagnosed with Pediatric Neuroblastoma, a cancer that originates in immature nerve cells and can manifest in various parts of the body, including the abdomen where Hassan's tumor was located.

The news of Hassan's diagnosis sent shockwaves through his family, but they remained steadfast in their determination to fight alongside him. Hassan's medical team swiftly developed a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to his specific needs. This plan included aggressive chemotherapy to shrink the tumor, followed by surgery to remove it, and subsequent radiation therapy and immunotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells. 

Hassan's treatment journey was marked by numerous challenges and setbacks. The side effects of chemotherapy took a toll on his young body, leaving him weak and fatigued. Surgery presented its own risks and uncertainties, but Hassan faced each obstacle with unwavering courage and determination. Throughout it all, his family stood by his side, offering love, support, and encouragement every step of the way. 

Despite the hardships he has faced, Hassan remains a sign of hope and inspiration to all who know him. His positive attitude and unwavering spirit have served as a source of strength for his family and medical team alike. As Hassan continues to undergo treatment, his prognosis is promising, offering hope for a brighter future ahead.

Hassan's journey underscores the importance of raising awareness about Pediatric Neuroblastoma and the challenges faced by children and families affected by this disease. By sharing his story, we can shed light on the realities of childhood cancer and advocate for increased funding for research, early detection, and improved treatment options. 

Hassan's journey is far from over, but he continues to face each day with courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. As he battles Pediatric Neuroblastoma, Hassan's story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of never losing hope in the face of adversity. As he continues on his journey towards recovery, Hassan's story will inspire countless others to never give up, no matter the challenges they may face. 

Prayers for Hassan’s successful treatment. Lots of prayers for his parents and whole family who are fighting this battle together.  

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 - 149

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 149

 

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. 

Essa is not an ordinary child; he is a warrior battling a fierce adversary known as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). At the tender age of nine, his life took a drastic turn when the diagnosis was made. Essa's world crumbled around him as he faced the harsh reality of his illness. Gone were the carefree days of playground laughter and fun. Instead, his days are now filled with hospital visits, painful treatments, and endless needles piercing his delicate skin.

Despite the physical agony, it was the emotional toll that weighed heavily on Essa's young heart. He watched as his parents' smiles faded into worried frowns, their eyes reflecting the fear and uncertainty. The once vibrant family became shrouded in sadness, as each passing day brought new challenges and setbacks.

But amidst the darkness, there was a glimmer of light that refused to be extinguished—the strength and resilience of a child determined to defy the disease. Essa refused to let leukemia define him; instead, he embraced each day with a courage.

Through the tears and the pain, Essa found solace in the simple joys of life—a gentle touch, a whispered word of encouragement, the warmth of a hug that spoke volumes more than words ever could. He discovered that true bravery was not the absence of fear, but the ability to rise above it, to find hope in the face of despair.

Yet, the road to recovery was fraught with obstacles, testing Essa's resolve at every turn. There were moments when he lost courage, when the weight of his burden threatened to crush him beneath its crushing weight. But each time he stumbled, he found the strength to pick himself up, to keep moving forward, fueled by a determination to reclaim the childhood that had been stolen from him. 

Essa's battle with leukemia continued, marked by moments of triumph and moments of despair. Yet, through it all, he remained steadfast in his belief that tomorrow would bring a brighter day, a day with bright light of success. 

And so, with every sunrise, Essa faced a new day with a brave heart and courage. For he knew that no matter how dark the night may seem, there was always hope to be found in the dawn of a new day—a hope that would carry him through even the darkest of storms.

Today, as Essa continues his fight against leukemia, his story serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit, the resilience of the human heart, and the unyielding strength of hope. 

Let us pray and stand together in solidarity with Essa and all those who bravely battle childhood leukemia, offering our love, our support, and our unwavering belief that no matter how tough the road may be, there is always light at the end of the tunnel

Prayers for Essa’s successful treatment. Lots of prayers for his parents and whole family who are fighting this battle together.  

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 - 148

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 148

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. 

Soon after Anas’s fourth birthday, the parents began to notice significant bruising below the knees on their son, Anas. The parents were worried after they realized that Anas was more tired than usual, presenting signs of difficulty breathing, and struggling to complete everyday activities.

At that point, the parents decided to take Anas to the pediatrician, where blood tests determined their family's journey for the next several years. When parents were anxiously awaiting the blood test results, they received a call from their pediatrician advising them to take Anas to the emergency department at Children’s Hospital immediately. At that point, they began to realize this was something serious.

Anas’s parents can never forget the last week of school, when they picked him up and took him to the emergency department at Children’s Hospital for further testing, where more blood work, an x-ray and other imaging were performed. That day, they  received the news that no parent should ever have to hear – “your child has leukemia.”

Anas was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He was immediately admitted and placed under the care of pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Children’s hospital, where he began his treatment plan.

The treatment outcomes for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in Pakistan are poor. According to a research report, 13–23% of T-ALL cases have been reported in Pakistan in the last 10 years. 

Anas is on a long journey of his treatment now; it may take three or more years. No doubt it is long and tedious journey ever that a child and his family have to go on. We pray that Anas and family complete this treatment smoothly and successfully.

Prayers for Anas’s successful treatment. Lots of prayers for his parents and whole family who are fighting this battle together.  

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 -147

 Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 147

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. 

Tahir and his family were out in an indoor play area when his mother noticed Tahir was getting tired. The following day, Tahir had tiny red spots on his thighs. Mother was unsure but when she noticed spot weren’t going away so she took him to hospital. That evening his blood came back as abnormal. Family never thought this could happen. Later, Tahir was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. The news shocked the family. Tahir had only just turned two years old.

The first part of his two-year treatment plan was very intense, a lot of different chemotherapy. However, Tahir was doing well. Since start of the treatment, Tahir has reacted well to most of the chemotherapy he has been on. 

The only time which was unexpected was when Tahir lost the use of his legs. He had to be carried everywhere which was horrible to see. After a few months of physiotherapy and having his lower legs in casts, Tahir eventually learnt how to walk again. But not just walking, running everywhere he goes

In March of 2023, Tahir entered the maintenance stage where they could start living new normal family life. Tahir has gone back to nursery, making new friends. He has been incredible during this very difficult time, and he really is a superhero. The first-time family went home after the diagnosis was like a bad dream. Starting new normal was and still is extremely scary. The maintenance stage does come with its downsides and family still is going into hospital when Tahir gets a fever, which is every few months and can be rather frustrating. However, every day he wakes up with a smile and has so much energy.

Tahir is still under treatment, and he needs lots of support and prayers to get over this.  

Prayers for Tahir’s healthy life always. Lots of prayers for his parents and whole family who are fighting this battle together.  

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 -146

 Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 146

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. 

Parents couldn’t imagine her young daughter who appeared happy and healthy not making it to her first day of school or even her next birthday.

So when they learned their little girl’s blood test during a routine exam indicated an alarmingly high white blood cell count, their initial reaction was, “Kids – babies – don’t get cancer.” 

Maryam was only 18 months old. She looked a little pale. Mother assumed she probably only had a virus. But Maryam’s pediatrician suspected cancer and immediately referred her to Children’s Cancer hospital for further evaluation and diagnosis.

Investigations confirmed the parents’ greatest fear: Maryam had leukemia. It was very aggressive. Treatment needed to begin right away.

Two-and-a-half years of treatment was planned. doctors believed that Maryam would eventually be a healthy girl starting kindergarten. Family went into fight mode immediately. 

Maryam’s form of childhood cancer – acute lymphoblastic leukemia, known as ALL – is the most common childhood cancer. Treatment for ALL has a high success rate. 

ALL is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow in which the bone marrow makes too many lymphoblasts, an immature form of T or B lymphocytes (cells that are supposed to help fight infection). 

The leukemia cells do not work like normal lymphocytes and are not able to defend against infection very well. Also, as the number of leukemia cells increases in the blood and bone marrow, less room is available for healthy white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets to be made. This may lead to infection, anemia and easy bleeding.

ALL usually becomes worse quickly if not treated. “Maryam could have died within weeks if she hadn’t been diagnosed when she was. Family was so thankful. They asked a lot of questions to doctors, but they had trust in Allah. 

Within hours of Maryam’s diagnosis, journey to wellness had begun. The first year of her treatment was especially difficult, sometimes filled with daily injections of medicine, weeks of hospitalization, months-long stretches of chemotherapy, and periodic bone marrow procedures at hospital.

While Maryam doesn’t remember much about those tough days, her parents and medical team were impressed with her resilience and attitude. Maryam is just a great kid; she doesn’t complain about anything. She’s always smiling and goes with the flow.

She is tolerating well with the treatment so far and lots of prayers for her complete recovery. 

Due to improved cancer therapies and supportive care, an overwhelming majority of childhood cancer patients survive. However, the same treatments that cure cancer patients may put them at risk for long-term health problems. The survivorship program serves this vulnerable population by providing them needed education, support and treatment.

Prayers for Maryam’s healthy life always. Lots of prayers for her parents and her whole family who are fighting this battle together.  

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 - 145

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 145

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. 

Noor Fatima was a normal, healthy baby. In January 2023, Noor Fatima’s mom, felt a lump near her 02-year-old’s right shoulder. At first, the pediatrician thought it might be a muscle knot. But when the lump was still there two weeks later, the doctor recommended that Noor Fatima see a specialist at Children’s Hospital and referred the family to hospital. 

Over the next two weeks, Noor Fatima underwent a series of imaging tests so clinicians could get a clearer picture of the lump. After the tests, a pediatric oncologist with expertise in the care of children with solid tumors, came to talk with family. Dr. said it was likely the mass in Noor Fatima’s back was a form of cancer. An MRI showed the mass was close to her spine; just how close would be a factor in whether surgery would be an option to remove it or not.

Noor Fatima’s parents were in shock. In just a couple of weeks, Noor Fatima had gone from being an apparently healthy baby to a child with life-threatening cancer. 

The doctor explained to the parents that although she appeared to have a less aggressive form of rhabdomyosarcoma, the mass was very close to her spine and surgery may not be able to remove all of the cancerous tissue. Instead, she recommended starting treatment with chemotherapy.

Three days after her birthday, she received first treatment at children’s hospital. “It was rough,” said mother. “Noor Fatima got very sick. But the nursing staff was wonderful with her. It was amazing how quickly I had confidence in them.”

After three months, Noor Fatima had a series of tests to gauge the effectiveness of the treatment: an MRI and a CT scan, all in one day. The images showed that despite treatment, the mass had grown. It was time to switch gears.

The parents met with the doctors, to discuss adjusting Noor’s treatment plan. The doctors proposed switching to a higher protocol of chemotherapy — a stronger combination of drugs — combined with sessions of radiation therapy.

After one dose of the new chemotherapy regimen, which would go on for 52 weeks, Noor began radiation treatment.

The treatment was powerful, and she developed significant burns on her skin and in her throat in the path of the focused radiation beams.

An important ray of hope came in November. Scans done after the inflammation from the radiation treatment had subsided showed the mass was not active. It was still there, but it was just a clump of dead tissue.

Even with that good news, the chemotherapy treatment continued as doctors wanted to be certain Noor’s cancer was eliminated. But treatment was taking its toll on Noor. The drugs used in the second protocol were more powerful, and the side effects were more intense.

After a particularly intense week of chemotherapy, Noor  was sick for weeks. Tests showed elevated liver enzymes in her blood which could have been caused by a reaction to chemotherapy medication. The medical team did not want to risk permanent damage to her liver, so his chemotherapy treatment ended early. Scans two weeks later showed no signs of active disease.

Though she has completed her treatment, but Noor will return to hospital for scans every three months, and her parents are in touch with doctors with any questions or concerns they have between appointments.

Prayers for Noor Fatima’s healthy life always. Lots of prayers for her parents and her whole family who are fighting this battle together.  

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 - 144

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 144

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. 

Cancer in any age is a horrible news. Having a cancer in just two years age is devastating. This child’s story is stated by his mother who no doubt is a brave educated lady.

“As a parent, hearing the words "your child has cancer" is one of the most devastating things you can ever hear. Our world was shattered when our 2.5-year-old son was diagnosed with Pre B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).” Mother said.

It all started with flu-like symptoms that wouldn't go away. They took Abdul Rehman to his pediatrician, thinking it was just a virus. But when his bruises didn't improve, they knew something was wrong. A trip to the emergency room revealed that his white blood cell count was through the roof.

The next morning, they were in the oncologist's office, hearing the words that no parent ever wants to hear. Their sweet little boy had cancer.

The early days of treatment were a blur. Endless hospital visits, needle pricks, and medications. Watching Abdul Rehman go from an active, energetic toddler to a bald, tired, and sick child was heartbreaking.

“But we found strength in our son's resilience. Despite the pain and discomfort, he still smiled, played, and sang. He taught us to cherish every moment, even in the darkest times”, Mother said.

As they navigated the ups and downs of treatment, they learned to appreciate the small victories. A good blood test result, a successful round of chemo, a smile on Abdul Rehman’s face.

“We also learned to cherish the little things, like the sound of his laughter, the feel of his tiny hand in ours, and the way he would snuggle into our laps. We realized that life is precious and can change in an instant”, mother said.

The brave lady said, “The road ahead is long, but they're determined to fight alongside their little warrior. “We'll hold his hand through the pain and celebrate with him through the triumphs. We'll be there for every hospital visit, every medication, and every sleepless night.” 

“We'll also be there for every milestone, every smile, and every moment of joy. We'll cherish every second we have with him and make memories that will last a lifetime.” She added.

“Our story is just beginning, but we know that with love, hope, and medical care, we'll get through this together. We'll take it one day at a time, one treatment at a time, and one smile at a time. We've learned that life is unpredictable, but we're determined to make the most of every moment. We'll hold on to hope and never lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel.

Our son's diagnosis has taught us to appreciate the little things, to cherish every second, and to never take life for granted. We've been humbled by the outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and strangers.

We know that we're not alone in this journey. There are countless families who have walked this path before us and many who will follow after us. We draw strength from their stories, their courage, and their resilience. As we navigate the ups and downs of treatment, we'll continue to hold on to hope, love, and each other. We'll celebrate every small victory and milestone along the way.

And when the day comes that our son rings the bell signaling the end of treatment, we'll rejoice with tears of joy, gratitude, and relief. We'll hug him tight and whisper in his ear, "You did it, little one! You fought the good fight, and you won!"

Until then, we'll take it one day at a time, surrounded by love, hope, and the unwavering belief that our little warrior will conquer this beast called cancer.

Prayers for Abdul Rehman’s treatment success and complete recovery. Lots of prayers for his parents and her whole family who are fighting this battle together.  

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.