When 16-year-old Sujata from Dharan, Nepal, was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma, her world changed overnight. A bright and ambitious student, she had just finished her coursework for Grade 9 and was preparing for her final exams, but instead of sitting in a classroom surrounded by friends, she suddenly found herself in a hospital ward hundreds of kilometres away from home.

Her family, who live modestly, had always worked hard to give their children the best start in life. Her father ran a small business, her mother cared for the family, and her younger brother was still in school. But when Sujata’s diagnosis came, her father had no choice but to close his business to accompany her to Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital, over 340 kilometres away. The family was left without an income, facing an uncertain future.

Despite the distance and the hardship, Sujata and her family refused to give up hope. That hope found new strength when they met their Family Support Officer (FSO), a vital role made possible by your support.

Understanding what the family needed most

From the moment they arrived, the Family Support Officer listened closely to Sujata’s family story, the challenges of traveling so far, the loss of income, and the emotional toll of treatment. Together, they created a plan to make life more manageable.

The FSO arranged accommodation at Leo Home, a safe and welcoming space close to the hospital. She also organized financial support for medicines, transport to and from the hospital, and helped Sujata’s family understand how to access government assistance and health programs.

But her role went far beyond logistics. The FSO offered a listening ear and emotional support, helping Sujata express her fears and frustrations and find moments of happiness again.

“Whenever I feel upset, I share my feelings with the FSO,” Sujata says. “Talking to her makes me feel calm and comfortable. She never gets angry and truly understands my emotions and struggles.”

Everyday moments that make a difference

Hospital life can be lonely, especially for a teenager far from home. Sujata misses her younger brother, her mother’s home-cooked meals, and her friends at school. Yet she has found new sources of comfort in the hospital – the nurses, other young patients, and her daily visits from the FSO.

“Every morning at nine o’clock, she visits our ward and kindly asks about our health.

 When she sees someone sad, she talks to them, shows us photos and videos of happy moments, and makes us laugh again. She gives us drawing books and colors, talks about our hobbies and school – and treats us like friends.” – Sujata

Through these simple yet powerful gestures, the FSO has helped Sujata find joy again — even in the midst of treatment. These daily moments of connection remind Sujata and her family that they are not alone in this journey.

The power of your support

Thanks to supporters like you, children like Sujata can receive not only life-saving treatment but also the emotional, financial, and practical support they and their families so desperately need. The Family Support Officers are a lifeline, helping families navigate hospital systems, easing financial stress, and, above all, bringing comfort and hope to young patients.

Because of this support, Sujata can focus on her recovery and look forward to returning home and back to school. Her family feels more confident and emotionally stronger, knowing someone is walking this path with them.

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

“The care from the nurses, talking with the FSO, and the friends I’ve made with other patients make me happy,” – Sujata

Thanks to you, World Child Cancer can continue ensuring that no child, and no family, has to face cancer alone.

Donate today to help more children like Sujata find hope, strength, and healing.