Zarah’s 4-Year Cancer Battle Just Got a Whole Lot Lighter!

Photo Credit: Children’s Hospital Trust via Facebook

Zarah’s spirit has remained remarkably resilient as she bravely faces cancer, fuelled by the support of her family and the compassionate care of the Children’s Hospital Trust.

Cape Town, South Africa (30 April 2025) – Four years. That is how long 18-year-old Zarah has been battling cancer, with immense strength.

She was first diagnosed in 2021, and after five months of treatment and being in and out of the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, she and her family were delighted to receive the news that she was cancer-free; at last, life could go on.

However, after an all-too-brief 10-month reprieve, though, the cancer returned. For the past two years, she has been receiving weekly treatments.

“It’s had its ups and downs,” she says, reflecting on her journey thus far.

“I thought I was going to die at one point because it got so crazy. But I had lots of support through everything, so I managed to get through.”

Facing the immense emotional and financial strain of childhood cancer, Zarah’s family found a lifeline in the Trust’s Oncology subproject, which has helped ease the financial burden for her family as she focuses on her recovery. They have received food vouchers, clothing, and transport assistance to help them feel a little less alone during this challenging time.

This week, she will be going for an important test to find out whether her treatment has eradicated all of the cancerous cells.

“I hope it’s all going to go away. I hope this is the last. Then I can focus on my career choices, my schooling, and university because that’s a priority. My health is, too, but I hope this is the end,” Zarah shares.

As she approaches her critical test, we wish this young warrior all the best this week and commend the Children’s Hospital Trust for ensuring she walks this path with all the care and support she so deeply deserves.