On February 14 2025 the hospital led by the Director- Nursing Services Dr. Pamleila Mugendi, Ag.Deputy Director Dr.Anthony Kamau and Dr. Rose Munge, Paediatric Oncologist hosted a heartfelt event to commemorate International Childhood Cancer Day.The event was made possible in collaboration with Faraja Cancer Support Trust led by Mr. David Makumi bringing together not only young cancer warriors but also their families, healthcare professionals, and supportive well-wishers on a day that was all about raising awareness, offering support and spreading joy.
The event provided a platform for highlighting the prevalence of various childhood cancers as well as the urgent need for early diagnosis and access to proper care. Among the most common types
of cancers in children are: Leukemia, especially Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Brain and Central Nervous System (CNS) tumours, Lymphomas (Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) affect the lymphatic system,Wilms Tumour, a kidney cancer that primarily affects children under five years, Neuroblastoma, a cancer arising from immature nerve cells, Osteosarcoma and Ewing Sarcoma bone cancers affecting adolescents.
Each of these conditions represent a significant challenge but with early intervention and advanced treatment, survival rates have greatly improved unlike Cancers in adults. Despite the serious nature of their medical conditions, the children experienced much joy and fun on this special day. The day kicked off with art and drawing where the children interacted with other participants present, painting and coloring vibrant pieces that expressed their emotions, dreams and resilience. These creative outlets allowed them channel their energy into something joyful and expressive. More activities continued with games tailored to their various energy levels and abilities. Volunteers and medical staff joined in ensuring that each child felt valued and celebrated and for a minute the usual ward routine was replaced by laughter, games, song and dance. The event also included distribution of gift bags filled with goodies – toys, books and snacks.
These thoughtful donations from well-wishers and corporate sponsors such as Zamara group were designed to bring comfort to the children and brighten their day. A special moment of laughter came when a clown entertained the children with balloon animals and light-hearted tricks, bringing smiles to their faces. For these young cancer warriors, the entertainment was not just fun—it was a therapeutic escape and reminder that there are brighter moments even amid their battles.
In conclusion, the day’s celebrations ended on a hopeful note with the cake-cutting ceremony symbolizing unity, resilience, love and the power of hope. As they shared the cake joyfully, the children, their families, and medical staff exchanged heartfelt messages of love and encouragement filled the air. Dr. Munge, spoke with deep gratitude and admiration of the children and their families, acknowledging their immense strength. International Childhood Cancer Day is an important reminder of the ongoing need to raise awareness and advocate for better care, early detection and robust support systems for children facing cancer. Through this event, we not only celebrated the children’s resilience but also highlighted the importance of supporting them in every way possible. For these young warriors, it was a day filled with hope and positivity, a celebration of their strength, and a reminder that they are not alone