Childhood blood cancer is a devastating disease that affects thousands of South African children each year. Despite being treatable and potentially curable with a stem cell transplant, many children face significant challenges due to delayed diagnosis and lack of awareness about its symptoms. Tragically, hundreds of children lose their lives to this disease annually.
Palesa Mokomele, head of community engagement and communications at DKMS Africa, says in the majority of cases, childhood blood cancer is only detected in the advanced stages of the disease. “This is because the symptoms can easily be mistaken for everyday ailments.”
A prime example is the case of 13-year-old Siphesihle, who was recently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). His mother, Slindile Mkhize, noticed that her son developed a persistent flu, followed by excessive vomiting. As Siphesihle’s condition worsened, he experienced severe limb pain and was unable to participate in school activities. Eventually, he was diagnosed with blood cancer.
A mother’s nightmare
For parents facing a child’s blood cancer diagnosis, coping can be a challenging journey. Mkhize says some days will be easier than others.
“It is important to allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling and try to stay positive. Prayer has helped me a lot with this.”
Slindile Mkhize
Mokomele echoes the importance of self-care for parents. “As the saying goes, ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup,'” she says. Remember to take care of yourself as much as you care for your child.
She also emphasises the value of support from others. “Other parents who have experienced this can offer valuable support and guidance. You could also reach out to friends and family to help with things like babysitting, cooking and grocery shopping or to even come with you to appointments. Additionally, you might want to consider joining a support group, speaking to a religious leader or to a mental health professional.”
Early diagnosis can save lives
Recognising the early signs of childhood blood cancer is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms, such as coughing, chest pain, frequent infections, fever, and chills, can often be mistaken for a severe cold or flu. However, if these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it’s important to consult a doctor.
Easy bruising is another common symptom that might be overlooked. While it can be attributed to rough play or sports injuries, bruises caused by blood cancer often appear in unusual places like the face, buttocks, ears, chest, and head. They may also be numerous and take longer to heal.
Shortness of breath, even without physical exertion, can also be a warning sign. If your child experiences sudden or worsening shortness of breath, especially if it lasts for over a month, it’s essential to seek medical attention.
Other potential symptoms of childhood blood cancer include unexplained weight loss, pale skin, and bone or joint pain. While symptoms can vary from child to child, it’s crucial to monitor for any changes and consult a doctor if you have concerns.
The financial burden of treatment-related expenses can add to the stress and anxiety experienced by parents of children with blood cancer. Organisations like DKMS Africa offer financial relief by covering transplant costs for patients in state health facilities and providing free tests to identify donor matches.
Mokomele encourages South Africans to support the parents of blood cancer patients by donating to the Patient Support Fund. “Together, we can bring hope to their lives,” she says. “Let’s help them in their fight.”
Visit DKMS Africa or contact them on 0800 12 10 82 for more information.
ALSO READ: Silent killers: Childhood cancer cases rise in South Africa
Get the Health For Mzansi newsletter: Your bi-weekly dose of kasi health, wellness and self-care inspiration.
