Sanu is 13 years old and currently receiving treatment for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in Nepal. Before treatment began, he lived at home with his father, elder sister, and younger brother. He enjoyed swimming, cycling, and playing with his school friends and sports team. 

Since beginning treatment, much of his time has been spent in hospital, away from his brothers, grandmother, friends, and daily life at home. 

When asked what makes him happy at the hospital, Sanu says he enjoys playing games with his friends. The Family Support Officer (FSO), Nirmala, regularly brings games, drawing materials, stationery, and other activities for the children in the ward. She also plays guitar for the children and encourages them to join in activities together.

Sanu says he enjoys spending time with her because “she is funny, and she makes me laugh.” 

According to the care team, Sanu was very quiet when he first arrived for treatment and did not interact much with others. Over time, through regular visits, play activities, counselling, and emotional support from the Family Support Officer, they have seen positive changes in his confidence and wellbeing. 

“I feel that Sanu is a very reserved and quiet child, and sometimes it is difficult to convince him to do things,” says Prechan Thapaliya, Senior Nurse in the Pediatric Oncology Department. “He was not an easy-going child when he first came here, but I am slowly seeing growth. He is now connecting with friends, playing, and socializing more than when he first arrived. He is also adjusting better with us and actively playing and interacting with the FSO.”

Dr. Krishna Sagar Sharma, Senior Consultant, has also seen significant changes during Sanu’s treatment journey. 

“I have seen a lot of improvement in him,” says Dr. Sharma. “Everyone has put great effort into his health and overall well-being. We are trying our best to support not only his physical health but also his mental health. Now, he has started interacting more with his friends, family members, and the FSO. This positive change makes us very happy and hopeful.” 

“We have learned that patience is very important during treatment, and so far, the treatment is going very well,” he adds. 

The support has extended beyond emotional wellbeing. Sanu’s father, Som Bahadur Moktan, is a single parent without a stable income, and the family has faced serious financial difficulties during treatment. Because Sanu requires ongoing care in hospital, his father has been unable to leave for work, and there has been no one else available to support the family or stay with Sanu during treatment.

Through support from World Child Cancer, the family received financial assistance for treatment-related costs and medicines. The Family Support Officer also helped arrange accommodation at the Leo Home so the family could stay closer to the hospital during treatment. 

When speaking with Family Support Officer Nirmala, Sanu’s father, shared how important the support had been for their family during treatment. 

“It feels like you are family to us,” says Som Bahadur Moktan. “It would have been very difficult for us if you (FSO) were not here. Sometimes we get very worried, but you were always there to talk about his condition and support us. The situation is still difficult, but your help and the support of the doctor team have made it a little easier.”

Sanu’s best friend, Laxman Shahi, has also noticed changes in him during treatment. 

“Previously, he did not talk, play, or socialize with others,” he says. “But now he plays with me, enjoys playing the guitar, and shares food with others.” 

For Nirmala, supporting children like Sanu means caring not only for their medical needs, but also for their emotional wellbeing throughout treatment. 

“I feel deeply grateful to be part of an initiative that brings meaningful change to the lives of children undergoing cancer treatment and their families,” she says. 

“Medical treatment alone is not always enough; mental health care and psychological support are also essential for both the child and the caregivers.” 

Nirmala explains that World Child Cancer supports families throughout the treatment journey by providing emotional, psychosocial, financial, and practical support alongside hospital care. 

“During long hospital stays, families often miss important festivals and cultural traditions, which can make them feel even more isolated and emotionally burdened,” she says. “World Child Cancer thoughtfully supports and organizes small celebrations of festivals and traditions in the hospital, helping families experience moments of happiness, emotional comfort, and a sense of normalcy.” 

“From the beginning of treatment until its completion, World Child Cancer continuously supports patients, caregivers, and even complements the efforts of the clinical team,” she adds. “As someone who has personally witnessed this positive impact, I sincerely appreciate and acknowledge World Child Cancer’s significant contribution to holistic cancer care and the overall wellbeing of children and their families.”

Although treatment continues, those around Sanu are encouraged by the progress they have seen, not only in his health, but also in his confidence, friendships, and happiness during a difficult time.