Jax Dunienville Blood Cancer Survivor

Imagine your four and a half year daughter gets diagnosed with cancer, not just any cancer blood cancer (Leukemia).  This is something that no parent ever want to think about or even live through. The dangers of cancer we all know too well but then you get those miracles that fight against it. Even small bodies can be strong enough with love, courage and hope. We spoke to a cancer survivor and this is what she had to say:

First please tell us more about yourself?

I am 22 years old and I reside in Johannesburg South Africa, I was born on the 9th of November 1989. I am a cancer survivor it made me who I am today too me it was the best thing that happend. I am studying to become a massuese , I am good with my hands. I am a very loving and caring person, down to earth and spiritual. My daughter is the love of my life she is one and a half going on five.

How old were you when you got diagnosed with Leukemia ?

Four and a half

Can you remember the treatments, the pain as well as living with lucemia and how did it affect your childhood?

I went for treatments three times a week, two was chemo therapy and the other one was lumber punching where they draw bone marrow from your spine. I had no pain but then again I don't remember everything as it was a longtime ago. I did not go to creche like other kids did and I got picked on in primary school because of not having hair

That seems like a lot of treatment for a child to go through, how did your parents cope?

My dad took his suffering out in the casino he was there al the time, my mom was always there for me and never left my side, I guess they just wanted to stay strong for my sake.

At what age did you get the clear that you are cancer free?

I was seven almost eight.

I bet you were very happy, how long did it take for your hair to grow back?

I cant really remember and I was too young to understand what was actually wrong with me, I did'nt know any betterbut yes I was happy that my hair was going to grow back and I was happy because I didnt need to go back to the hospital all the time.

If you could give a message to other cancer patients what will it be?

No matter how long you suffer or how bad it may get never let go of your hope and your strenght. Keep a positive and open mind about what you are going through becuase in the end it will be worth it and it will make you a better and stronger person.

Strong words in that message, we can say with all honesty cancer survivors are true angels and they are what heroes are made of. The Modern L is proud to be valued to share these people's stories and remember if you know someone who is suffering from cancer here is what you can do:

Help them by supporting them with a positive attitude.

When they feel down and sick try to cheer them up.

It is not always easy to do this but if they need someone to go with them for therapy suggest they take you with, people who are around cancer patients get to learn more about this from people's experiences.

Dont give up and dont ever stop praying for those people.

　
                                                                            Interviewed by Martha Mienie