Leukaemia leads diseases pack among youngsters

LINEO MABEKEBEKE

MASERU – Childhood cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents worldwide, and in Lesotho, the battle is no different. Among these cancers, leukaemia stands as the most commonly diagnosed, particularly affecting the country’s youngest citizens.

This heart-wrenching reality has sparked action from local organisations like the Childhood Cancer Association, which is determined to raise awareness, provide support, and advocate for improved care and treatment for children affected by the disease.

The founder of the Childhood Cancer Association ’Mampho Tšupane, is no stranger to the overwhelming challenges that accompany this fight. Her association comprises 10 dedicated members and four volunteers, all focused on tackling various childhood cancers, with leukaemia at the forefront. Tšupane said of the 24 children currently under the care of the association, 11 are battling leukaemia. These young fighters, whose ages range from just over a year old to 19, all facing the unimaginable reality of living with a potentially life-threatening illness.

“We have 24 children, but 11 of them are battling leukaemia,” she explained. “Most of our children come from different districts across Lesotho, which creates a significant challenge, especially when it comes to accessing treatment. The majority must travel to Maseru or even across the border to Bloemfontein for specialised care.”

Transportation, accommodation, and the financial strain on families are just a few of the obstacles that children and their parents must overcome in this battle.

“Many parents simply cannot afford the costs associated with their child’s treatment. Even when treatment is available, the cost of travelling to and from Bloemfontein or staying in Maseru is more than most can bear,” Tšupane continued. “In some cases, families are forced to quit treatment altogether, and that is a tragedy we are working tirelessly to prevent.”

One such story of perseverance and hope is that of Joalane Tšupane, (’Mampho Tšupane’s daughter) a survivor of leukaemia. Diagnosed at just one year and eight months old, Joalane faced a decade-long journey of treatments, surgeries, and countless challenges.

Now 18 years old and in remission, she reflects on her arduous path to survival. “When I was first diagnosed, it started as what seemed like a simple flu. But as my condition worsened, we found out it was leukaemia,” Joalane recalls.  “I missed a lot of school because of my treatments in Bloemfontein. It was not easy, but my family was there for me every step of the way. Their support was what got me through those dark times.”

Despite the obstacles she faced, Joalane is now using her experience to inspire others. She encourages fellow leukaemia patients to remain hopeful and believe in the possibility of survival. “I know it is not easy, but you have to stay positive and trust in your care. With time, you will overcome it.”

For Joalane and the other young patients like her, organisations like the Childhood Cancer Association are a lifeline. Working hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Health, the association is urging the Basotho public to show solidarity and support for children with cancer and their families. They emphasise that addressing childhood cancer requires a united effort from all sectors of society.

During September, known internationally as “Gold September,” Lesotho joins the global community in raising awareness about the devastating impact of childhood cancer. The gold ribbon, a symbol of the strength, courage, and resilience of children and teenagers facing this disease, is worn to honour these brave young souls.

The aim is not only to spread awareness but also to advocate for better care, early detection, and research support that can improve survival rates. Globally, initiatives like the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC) have set ambitious targets.  By 2030, the GICC aims to increase the global survival rate for childhood cancers to 60 percent. For Lesotho, where healthcare resources are often limited, achieving this goal will require not only government intervention but also widespread public awareness and community involvement.

One of the significant challenges Lesotho faces in improving cancer outcomes is the delay in diagnosis. Too often, children are brought to healthcare centres too late, when the disease has already progressed to an advanced stage.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical for increasing survival rates, and organisations like the Childhood Cancer Association are urging parents and caregivers to familiarise themselves with the early warning signs of childhood cancers.

For leukaemia, these symptoms can include pale skin, frequent infections, and red spots on the skin. The medical community continues to stress the importance of timely treatment, with chemotherapy and immunotherapy being the most common options for managing childhood cancers.  Chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells, is often a gruelling process that requires ongoing monitoring and support.

Immunotherapy, a more targeted approach, helps the body’s immune system recognise and destroy cancer cells. While treatments have advanced, they remain physically and emotionally draining for both the patients and their families. This is why the Childhood Cancer Association and other advocacy groups continue to call for greater support—not only from the healthcare system but also from the general public.

Providing emotional, psychological, and financial assistance to affected families is crucial in helping them navigate the difficult road ahead. As the nation reflects on Gold September, Tšupane and her team remind the public that every child deserves a fighting chance.

By working together, raising awareness, and offering support to children with cancer and their families, Lesotho can make strides toward a brighter, more hopeful future for its youngest citizens. “It is not just about treatment,” Tšupane said. “It is about standing with these families through the entire journey. No one should have to fight alone.”