A parent’s dream is to see their children thrive as strong and independent individuals, but for Shareen Lata, the challenge lies in accepting that she may not witness her youngest son grow up to be that way. Rishav Lal, her eight-year-old son, has been battling leukemia since he was two years old.
Ms. Lata describes Rishav as a kind and caring boy with a passion for painting. Despite understanding the gravity of his condition, Rishav often comforts his mother by nudging her and telling her to “stop yarr,” a gesture that signifies, “it’s OK, mum.”
Diagnosed with leukemia at the age of two, Rishav faced a hopeful recovery after his initial chemotherapy treatment. However, Ms. Lata shares that the disease has returned, and it has been five years since his diagnosis. She recalls that after his first treatment, he showed signs of improvement, eating well and becoming more energetic. Unfortunately, his cancer has since spread throughout his body, and the doctors have informed the family that chemotherapy cannot halt or delay its progress.
Currently, there is no effective treatment available abroad either, leading Ms. Lata to place her hopes in divine intervention for her son’s recovery. Recently, after a surgical procedure, Rishav’s health has declined significantly, leaving him often feeling drowsy and eating little. Nevertheless, he remains communicative and is still able to spend time with his friends.
The emotional toll of her son’s illness leaves Ms. Lata feeling helpless, yet she finds solace in the support from both her family and the WOWS Kids Fiji foundation over the past five years. She expresses her gratitude toward WOWS for providing assistance with groceries, school-related expenses, and medication, emphasizing their vital role in supporting Rishav.
“I pray to God every day that I don’t lose my Rishav,” she declares, holding onto hope as she navigates this challenging journey.