For Shareen Lata, witnessing her children grow up to be strong and independent is a cherished dream. However, the reality of raising her youngest son, Rishav Lal, has brought immense heartache. At just eight years old, Rishav has been battling leukemia, a fight that began when he was only two.
Ms. Lata expresses gratitude for having a son who is kind-hearted and passionate about painting. Despite his understanding of his situation, Rishav tries to comfort his mother by nudging her arm and asking her to stop crying, reassuring her with phrases like, “it’s OK mum.”
“Rishav was diagnosed with leukemia at two years old, but sadly, the illness has returned,” Ms. Lata shared, noting that it has been five challenging years since the diagnosis. After his first round of chemotherapy, Rishav showed tremendous improvement and was filled with energy. However, the illness has resurfaced, and his condition has worsened significantly.
“After his recent operation, we learned that the leukemia has spread throughout his body. His doctor informed us that chemotherapy would no longer be effective,” she revealed. “There are no viable treatments available overseas, so our only option now is to place our trust in God and hope for a miracle.”
Ms. Lata described Rishav’s current struggle, mentioning his frequent drowsiness and loss of appetite, yet he still manages to spend time with his friends and converse cheerfully. “I feel powerless, but all I can do is hope,” she said.
Throughout this ordeal, the support from her family and the WOWS Kids Fiji foundation has provided tremendous comfort and assistance over the past five years. “WOWS has been incredible in helping us with groceries, school expenses, transportation, and medication. Their support for Rishav has been unwavering, and I am eternally grateful,” Ms. Lata expressed.
Additionally, she appreciates the solidarity from her family and the community, saying, “I pray every day to God that I don’t lose my Rishav.”