Children suffering from cancer: Raising awareness in the fight against childhood cancer in the DRC
The book “Martyr children: inspired by the lives of children suffering from cancer in the DRC” by author Andy Mukendi is a real cry for awareness on the alarming situation of childhood cancer in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Presented for the first time on June 23 at the French Institute in Lubumbashi, this book aims to raise funds to support children with cancer and their families.
The situation of childhood cancer in the DRC is worrying, despite the existence of a pediatric oncology unit at the university clinics of the University of Lubumbashi. Andy Mukendi, a second doctoral student in medicine, decided to get involved and give a voice to these children by creating the non-profit association “African children’s dream”. This association aims to provide psychological support to children with cancer through cultural activities and rehabilitation and social reintegration programs.
In his book, Andy Mukendi gives voice to children and their families, telling their stories and sharing their testimonies. It sheds light on the difficulties they face, from diagnosis to the outcome of the disease. Some children unfortunately lost their lives, while others were cured.
The book “Martyr children: inspired by the lives of children suffering from cancer in the DRC” consists of three parts. The first part addresses the perception of childhood cancer in the community, the second part tells the real stories of the children with photos and testimonials, and finally, the third part calls for community participation.
The objective of this book is to raise awareness about childhood cancer in the DRC and to raise funds to improve the care of these children. Andy Mukendi also hopes that this book will contribute to the creation of a national program to fight childhood cancer in the DRC.
Childhood cancer is a serious disease, but early diagnosis can greatly increase the chances of recovery. However, the DRC does not yet have a national childhood cancer screening program. Andy Mukendi emphasizes the importance of setting up such a program in order to improve the care of these children and to fight effectively against this disease.
In conclusion, the book “Children martyrs: inspired by the lives of children suffering from cancer in the DRC” is a powerful awareness tool that highlights the reality of childhood cancer in the DRC. It recalls the urgency of acting and supporting these children and their families in their fight against the disease. Andy Mukendi, through his book and his commitment, hopes to raise collective awareness and create the conditions necessary to fight effectively against childhood cancer in the DRC.