In July, Shahriar’s parents grew worried when their son developed a prolonged fever and severe joint pain. They visited several hospitals in search of answers, before eventually being referred to Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute (BSH&I) in Dhaka. It was there that they finally received a diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL).

“We found it quite difficult to bear the news since we never heard of childhood cancer. We were at a loss to grasp the fact that it really happened to our child,” – Shahriar’s mother. 

Alongside the shock of the diagnosis, Shahriar’s father had to give up his job to care for him, all while supporting elderly parents at home.

“With aged parents to care for, we find it increasingly difficult to manage both responsibilities, and the sudden unemployment has further deepened our hardship.”- Shahriar’s mother.

The family considered stopping treatment and returning home, a heartbreaking but common reality when the financial burden feels impossible. Instead, they reached out to relatives for support, determined to give their son the chance to survive.

Support that changes lives 

Thanks to supporters like you, World Child Cancer was there for Shahriar and his family. Through our program at BSH&I, he received free medicines and counselling to help them cope.

His mother shared how much this support has eased their burden:

“Previously, we had to leave the hospital premises to buy medicines, or someone had to search across different dispensaries to obtain oncological drugs, which was a time-consuming and exhausting task. Now, we receive them on time and free of cost, without the added stress of uncertainty.” 

This timely help has not only ensured Shahriar’s treatment continues but also provided his family with the reassurance that they are not alone in this journey. 

Looking ahead

Shahriar is still under observation, but his family can now focus on his care with renewed hope. With your support, more children like Shahriar can access essential medicines, emotional support, and the chance to live a life beyond cancer. 

This Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, your donation could help keep children like Shahriar in treatment and give families the hope they need. Donate today and triple your impact