KUCHING: After 15 months of being away from home, little Samuel finally completed his intensive treatment and was granted permission to go home to Miri where he will undergo follow-up care.
Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) disclosed that Samuel was diagnosed with Stage 4 neuroblastoma in July last year when he was just three years old.
Doctors suggested that Samuel’s survival chance was slim and that to get better, he needed to undergo immunotherapy which is a medical treatment not readily available in Sarawak due to its high cost.
“For Samuel alone, we contributed RM260,000 to subsidise his treatment cost with hopes to increase his survival rate.
“Other essential support included the provision of accommodation, food, and transportation for Samuel and his mother during the treatment for over a year in Kuching,” it said in a social media post.
The society recalled that when Samuel first arrived at its Kuching halfway home, he was shy and tiny in size.
“It warms our hearts and gives us much joy to see Samuel return home, healthier, and taller with the same heart of love for dinosaurs,” it said.
Last week, the society’s team organised a mini celebration to bid farewell to Samuel and his mother.
“Families staying at the halfway home, and staff members came together to express their good wishes to Samuel’s new life. This is indeed why we do what we do,” it added.
In a separate post, the society disclosed that it had conducted a colouring activity which is part of its ongoing recreational initiatives to connect with children while keeping their minds off treatment.
Society pointed out that colouring has always been a big hit as a hobby or pastime activity amongst children, especially at the weekly clinic while they are waiting for their doctor’s appointments.
“A simple colouring activity helps children to develop creativity as they experiment with different colour combinations and patterns.
“It also improves their concentration to complete the template sheet while contributing to their sense of achievement and developing their confidence,” it said.
