Philangezwi Siwela will finally go back to school and complete his studies after a long stay in the hospital.
It was rather an emotional day for the 14-year-old as he publicly marked the end of his treatment during the ringing of the bell momentous occasion on February 17 at the paediatric oncology unit.
He was sent home after being cleared of osteosarcoma which he was diagnosed of in 2021.
The cancer was discovered in tests after he injured his knee while playing football, resulting in a tumour in his left leg.
Late last year, he underwent life-saving surgery to successfully remove a tumour in his leg without removing his whole limb.
During the hospital’s momentous ringing of the bell occasion, he was showered with a number of goodies, and also received a medal of honour from Dr Tanya Schickerling. He also had his hands full of gifts from Cupcakes of Hope.
Road to recovery
Schickerling of Netcare Alberton Hospital’s paediatric oncology unit said Philangezwi has been a daring youngster throughout his journey.
“The day that Phila came with an ambulance, he was in so much pain. And because of the lump, he couldn’t even lift his leg and I knew that we had to act very fast. We immediately started him on chemotherapy and I was worried that he was going to lose his leg, but we were certain on saving his life,” she explained.
When young Philangezwi said, “Doctor, if you have to cut off my leg to save my life that’s okay”, Schickerling was moved.
“That was heart-breaking and we decided we were going to try our very best to not just save his life, but save his leg too. And with all prayers, we are so grateful that today he stands with both his legs and with no cancer,” Schickerling said.
The emotional Philangezwi said though he knew that he was miles away from home, the hospital was ‘home away from home’.
“I want to thank all doctors and nurses as well as all staff at the hospital. I also want to wish all cancer warriors going through this journey well and a speedy recovery,” he said.
His father Samson Siwela said these were the most difficult years ever and that he is glad his son is finally going back home to his family.
“I’m really happy that he will be able to finish Grade Eight. He will get to rest and do seldom check-ups. We have mixed emotions but we’re very pleased that the hospital did everything in their power to save his leg and his life,” he said.
