Tuesday 15 April 2014

Amaan Shah Foundation for Child Cancer

Amaan Shah is a 11 year old boy from Andhra Pradesh who was diagnosed with Burkitt's lypmphoma. Very sadly, he died while undergoing treatment. His mother very poignantly describes his journey - as only mothers can and I would strongly recommend all us health professionals and parents to read it. It brings to our attention the familiar challenges of delay in recognising the symptoms and diagnosis, the lack of referral pathways, the toxicity of treatment, the inadequate palliation of symptoms, and above all the large vacuum of information and guidance.

Amaan's parents have very bravely and courageously decided to join the cause of children with cancer and set up a foundation in his name Amaan Shah Foundation for Child Cancer. Amaan's mother Asma Pasha says "I don't want all our efforts to go waste, specially MY SON'S... I want to get strong with my emotions and lead for a good cause. What my son..me..my whole family has faced.. i wish and pray Almighty no parents and children should face that. well its all Almighty's command but still our efforts can make a difference".



I sincerely admire how Amaan's family is trying to turn personal loss and grief into a force for change. I wish them all the best.