A Mother’s Journey: When Her Two-Year-Old Son Was Diagnosed with Cancer After Stubbing His Toe
Zakariyah, known as Zak, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in May 2022 after his parents noticed his toe injury wasn’t healing.
The Unexpected Diagnosis
When Zak was diagnosed, his mother, Amina, felt disbelief and shock. She said, “Our whole world was turned upside down.” Amina felt overwhelmed and extremely worried, as their lives were suddenly turned into a whirlwind of uncertainty.
The Treatment Journey
Zak was put on an intensive program of chemotherapy and steroids treatment at The Royal Marsden Hospital. The doses gradually intensified over a three-month period, and at one point, Zak was receiving chemotherapy nearly every day – causing his hair to fall out.
The Emotional Impact
Amina said, “He didn’t handle it very well, because he was so little and didn’t understand what was going on.” Zak became scared of all the doctors and nurses, and it took him a long time to get over that. His mother had to push for him to be seen by doctors, and her maternal instincts proved to be a vital factor in his treatment.
The Current Situation
Now aged four, Zak undergoes treatment every six months, which includes a lumbar puncture, chemotherapy once a month, and several other drugs administered at home. His treatment is expected to end in June 2025, followed by regular check-ups for at least five years.
Life with Cancer
Zak’s life is filled with good days and bad days. He experiences pain, his jaw aches, and his legs hurt, but his vibrant personality has not been dimmed. Amina said, “He is playful and such a joy. You never see him upset over anything.” Zak loves riding bikes, swimming, and playing football, and he attends school, where he can be himself and not focus on his cancer.
The Campaign for Comfort
Zak and his family are now backing Cancer Support UK’s campaign to provide lavender-scented heatable teddy bears to other children in Zak’s position. The charity aims to send 1,200 warmable sensory bears to children’s cancer wards across the UK, to help deliver a little comfort this Christmas.
Conclusion
Zak’s story is a testament to the strength and resilience of children facing cancer. Despite the challenges he has faced, Zak remains a joyful and playful child, and his family is determined to support him every step of the way. The campaign for comfort is a vital initiative that can bring solace to children like Zak, and we hope it will receive the support it deserves.
FAQs
Q: What is acute lymphoblastic leukemia?
A: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is the most common type of childhood cancer.
Q: What is the prognosis for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia?
A: The prognosis for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia is generally good. With treatment, most children can be cured of the disease.
Q: How can I support children with cancer?
A: You can support children with cancer by donating to organizations like Cancer Support UK, which provides vital services and support to families affected by childhood cancer. You can also spread awareness about childhood cancer and the importance of early detection and treatment.
Q: How can I get involved in the campaign for comfort?
A: You can get involved in the campaign for comfort by donating to Cancer Support UK or spreading awareness about the campaign on social media. You can also consider volunteering at a local children’s cancer ward or hospital to help bring comfort to children like Zak.
