Cancer for Kids
Less than 20% of children diagnosed with cancer in Vietnam survive. That leaves the rest – a staggering 80% - with unreasonably short lives. Currently, it may seem like a hopeless case for the hundreds of unfortunate children.
But do you have a few hours to make a difference in the life of a child?
We, the volunteers in the Cancer for Kids club, do. Our spirit and determination is the heart and soul of this group of about 25. No matter how little an hour a week seems, altogether, what we give and devote can change the experience of an illness for a family.
Every week after school on Wednesdays, the room is buzzing with discussions and plans for the next charity event to be held at school in order to raise awareness to help these patients. The club was formed in the academic year of 2011/2012 and since then several school events were put into action, successfully delivering their message. Notable occasions from last year included Movember, where some teachers grew their moustaches for a month and students voted for the best one, also being able to shave it off themselves at the end of November; the Cancer Ball held at the Intercontinental, where adults could enjoy a fancy night out for a good cause; and finally the unforgettable Beat the Teacher! competition. All raised an incredible amount of money and were used to help provide doctors with a better education by sending them overseas.
On the 18th of September, 5 students, Mrs Nielsen and Mr Pollicutt made our first visit of this academic year to the Oncology hospital in Binh Thanh district. For many of us, it was our first time visiting the cancer ward and we excitedly left the school. It took us some time to reach our final destination: the ball room where the Moon Festival would be celebrated in the hospital. As we climbed the stairs and walked through hallways past various wards, though we were told to expect this, we couldn’t help but be disappointed at the quality of the facilities and how patients and family members alike were sitting and lying on different parts around the hospital. There were people preparing for a dance or play but on the other side of the room were young children looking half the size of their age. We spent about 30 minutes talking to them in our limited Vietnamese as well as playing with them and teaching them high fives. Despite their terminal illnesses, it was incredibly inspiring that they were so energetic and cheerful.
Our aim remains the same: to help these children with our very best efforts. Remembering the children’s dimpled smiles and toothy grins make us more motivated to contribute to the club. Recalling the unhygienic services and crowdedness of the hospitals will compel us to spread the word. Knowing what is right and what should be done will see that our achievements continue. Being only teenagers, what we can do seems limited, but the thoughts and morale that we have will ensure the accomplishment of our aims.
Ji Soo Chung 10N
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