At just 19, Tsiamo Lebese’s life took an unexpected turn when she discovered lumps on her neck, a seemingly minor issue that was, in fact, the early sign of stage 4B Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. However, a nurse’s kindness made all the difference in seeing Tsiamo through her darkest moments.
Germiston, South Africa (07 September 2026) – At just 19, Tsiamo Lebese noticed odd lumps on her neck. A discovery that would send her on a journey she never imagined, but one made a little easier thanks to a nurse who went above and beyond to ensure she was cared for.
This Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Tsiamo shares her story with CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation, opening up about being diagnosed with stage 4B Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer in 2019.
“The very first sign or symptom I noticed but didn’t know was a part of the SILUAN symptoms was lumps on my neck. They really portrayed themselves as measles that would come and go when treated with antibiotics or pain medication.”
Looking back now, Tsiamo realises that the early warning signs of her condition were those very lumps – symptoms she wishes her parents knew about.
“Because of the fatigue. Through the loss of weight, the lumps on my neck spoke more. But because of a lack of knowledge, my parents couldn’t know at the spot that it was cancer.”
What kept her strong? The kindness of Sister Rams, a nurse who checked on her every day, even when she was off duty.
“If I could thank one person who helped her during that time, it would be one of the nurses, Sr Mabato. I called her Sr Rams. I would say she helped me through this time because she always made sure I ate. She would come and have a conversation with me before she knocked off. She’d come check up on me every day when she was on duty, even when she wasn’t working in my exact cubicle, but she would always try to make time for me.
“That really mattered to me because it showed me how much she really cared and supported me,” shares a now 22-year-old Tsiamo.
This month, this brave young woman is wearing her gold ribbon for childhood cancer warriors who have gained their angel wings and those currently undergoing cancer treatment.
Every ribbon has a story. Every story has a sign. Tsiamo’s is a powerful testament to the impact of both early detection and the support of compassionate caregivers in making the journey a little easier.
To learn more about childhood cancer and the SILUAN Early Warning Signs, visit the CHOC website.
Sources: CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation
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