In celebration of Women’s Month, Reach for a Dream hosted a breakfast at the African Pride Hotel at Melrose Arch with renowned paediatric oncologist Professor Janet Poole and two young female cancer survivors, who shared their stories of hope.
Poole is the principal specialist and head of paediatric haematology and oncology unit at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. She told the stories of children that inspired her over the decades she has been involved in treating children with cancer as well as some of the challenges facing children with cancer in South Africa.
“For every child diagnosed and treated, it has been a lesson taken forward,” said Poole.
“There are always children that surprise us, fight and pull through – dare I say it’s a miracle. Some fight and never give up and others slip away. All we can do is treat them to the best of our ability.”
Poole believes the best place a child can be treated is in a paediatric oncology unit with a team of doctors, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists and other specialists. She believes that every child, no matter where they come from, should be afforded the same treatment.
“There is a perception from the public that state hospitals give inferior treatment. I have fought long and hard to ensure children there receive the same treatment.”
She said that of the 25 000 children diagnosed with cancer each year, 80 per cent of these children live in low and middle-income countries. Sadly 90 per cent of deaths occur in these countries, but this is not because of inferior doctors or medical equipment, but often due to late diagnosis.
“I would like to see more children diagnosed in the early stages, enough budget, doctors and nurses provided and every child afforded the opportunity to be treated properly and return to living a normal life.”
She also spoke about the role of Reach for a Dream in bringing a moment of happiness to children when they go through difficult times.
Two young cancer survivors who had their dreams fulfilled shared their stories. Roodepoort resident Katelyn Fourie was given a trip to Durban to play with dolphins at uShaka Marine World with her family. Her mother Debbie said the Reach for a Dream team pulled out all the stops to make the trip an unforgettable experience.
Fourways resident Lesedi Sekgololo had the opportunity to meet celebrity Siba Mtongana from Siba’s Table on the Food Network.
Sekgololo said, “I had trouble eating and watched the Food Network to get my appetite going. I like mimicking their recipes and it was such an honour to meet Siba. She is so nice in real life. Seeing her and having her say my name and hugging her for the first time were my highlights.”
Learn more about the work of Reach for a Dream by liking them on Facebook and checking out their website on www.reachforadream.org.za
Talk to us by posting on our timeline Midrand Reporter or tweeting us @MidrandReporter
