| Rokiah Mahmud |
THE Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) hosted a Childhood Cancer Awareness programme at the Times Square Shopping Centre in Berakas yesterday, to highlight the effects of cancer on children, young people and their families.
Every year in Brunei Darussalam, an average of 10-15 children are diagnosed with cancer. But with recent advances in research and treatment, the five-year survival rate for most childhood cancers has climbed from less than 50 per cent to 80 per cent, over the past few decades.
Yesterday’s programme featured several activities for children, as well as an exhibition on the type of support required by young cancer patients, for them to continue leading normal lives.
Two mothers shared their experiences with the Bulletin.
Lim Geok Lai, recounted how her world was shattered when she was informed that her daughter was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), a type of blood cancer.
“It took me a while to get back on my feet, when I realised that I needed to be strong for my daughter,” she said.
“There was no history of cancer in our family, as we are also vegetarian. I kept asking myself why this had to happen to us.
“At one point, my daughter was admitted to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), when her blood sugar skyrocketed to 40+mmol. The doctors tried their best to save her, and I was told to be prepared for the worst. After that, her precious hair started to fall.
“I kept on being optimistic and supporting my daughter during her treatment, while at the same time praying, to ease things for us,” she added. “It took her almost two-and-a half years to survive the cancer, after going through many rounds of medical treatment and chemotherapy.”
Siu Tzzy Wei, meanwhile, said that her daughter was 11 when she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Since then, she has undergone two years of chemotherapy.
“The first year was spent in intensive treatment, with the second year being the maintenance phase,” she said.
Wei said she derives her strength from friends and family, particularly her mother, who constantly advises her to stay optimistic
She also has words of advice for cancer patients.
”Be strong and happy; pursue a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Hold on to every strand of faith, and hang in there.”
The post YASKA programme highlights care, support for young cancer patients appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.