Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Charlotte Nambadja
Published on 2024-02-28 10:00:00
Charmaine van Wyk, a mother from Grootfontein, shares her experience of her daughter’s diagnosis with cancer. Cha’rissa van Wyk, 14, has been diagnosed with cancer twice in her young life. The first diagnosis was blood cancer at the age of three, followed by bone marrow cancer (acute myeloid leukemia) last year. Acute myeloid leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and results in the production of abnormal blood cells. This type of cancer can have major impacts on red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Van Wyk reflects on how the first time her daughter was diagnosed, access to treatment was more manageable at a local state hospital. However, this time around, the situation is more challenging. Without medical aid, they are faced with financing treatments that are not available at state hospitals in Namibia. The specific medication needed for Cha’rissa has not been approved by the Namibian health system and can only be obtained in South Africa. This monthly medication is crucial to prevent the reoccurrence of cancerous cells in her daughter’s body.
Cha’rissa has been undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy, and has spent months in isolation at Windhoek Central Hospital. The family is currently raising funds for a bone marrow transplant, which is estimated to cost N$5 million and can only be performed in South Africa. The financial strain caused by the treatment has taken a toll on the family, requiring them to spend considerable time apart.
Van Wyk emphasizes the importance of parents recognizing persistent signs of illness in their children, such as headaches and fatigue. She also stresses the need for the entire family to seek psychological support when a child is diagnosed with cancer. Additionally, she calls for public donations and blood donations to support cancer patients in need.
Dr. Chatty Lisoma, a medical officer in the Ministry of Health and Social Services’ cancer prevention program, explains that leukemia is cancer of the white blood cells produced in the bone marrow. International Childhood Cancer Day, observed on February 15, serves as a reminder to raise awareness about childhood cancers and educate the public on signs and symptoms to look out for.
According to the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN), bone cancer is a common yet challenging cancer in children, with over 200,000 children worldwide diagnosed with cancer each year. In Namibia, around 900 children are currently battling cancer, with approximately 280 new cases diagnosed annually.
As the nation stands together to fight childhood cancer, the importance of early diagnosis and access to appropriate treatment is crucial. Raising awareness and understanding the signs and symptoms of childhood cancer can help save lives and support families facing this challenging journey.
Read the original article on The Namibian
