In recognition of International Childhood Cancer Day on Sunday, Tygerberg Hospital and the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital are amplifying their message on the importance of early detection and timely treatment for paediatric cancers.
Despite being less prevalent than adult cancers, the significance of early recognition and intervention cannot be understated, as it substantially increases the chances of successful outcomes, reports Cape {town}Etc.
The most common forms of childhood cancer include brain tumours, acute leukaemia, and various tumours originating in deep-seated organs such as the liver, kidneys, and adrenal glands.
These paediatric cancers tend to grow rapidly but frequently respond well to chemotherapy, highlighting the necessity for swift medical intervention.
Alliyah Lewis’ Journey: A Story of Hope
Two-year-old Alliyah Lewis from Darling experienced progressive abdominal swelling, pain, and weight loss until she was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma in 2024.
This type of cancer targets the adrenal glands and parts of the nervous system. Her treatment journey was extensive, encompassing intensive chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, and nutritional support.
In a moment of celebration in December 2025, Alliyah rang the copper bell at Tygerberg Hospital’s Paediatric Oncology Ward, signifying the end of her treatment. Today, she is a vibrant child, full of life and energy. ‘What stayed with us most was the emotional support from the staff,’ recalled her mother, Lauren Lewis.
‘They comforted us when we were overwhelmed, reassured us when we were afraid, and reminded us we were not facing this journey alone,’
Alliyah’s remarkable recovery stands as a testament to the critical role of early intervention and appropriate management in a specialised paediatric oncology unit, as noted by Prof Van Zyl, Paediatric Oncologist at Tygerberg Hospital.
Amber Michael’s Journey: Resilience in Action
The story of 18-year-old Amber Michael from Heideveld further illustrates the importance of early detection. A lump discovered at the age of 5 resurfaced in 2020, growing rapidly and leading to her diagnosis of stage 1 Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.
Amber’s treatment involved aggressive chemotherapy alongside caring support from her medical team.
Her father, Ashley, reflected on her journey: ‘Despite the challenges, Amber faced each day with courage and determination. Her resilience and positive spirit inspired everyone around her. The medical team provided not only expert care but also hope and reassurance during an incredibly difficult time,’
Today, Amber is a first-year BA Psychology student at the University of the Western Cape, embodying the success that timely detection and effective treatment can yield.
Recognising the Warning Signs
According to Professor Alan Davidson, Head of Haematology and Oncology at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, vigilance is crucial. Parents should be aware of persistent symptoms such as:
- Pallor and easy bruising or bleeding, often accompanied by bone or joint pain
- Persistently enlarged lymph nodes
- Unexplained lumps in the abdomen, head and neck, limbs, or testes
- White spots in the eye, new squints, or bulging eyes
- Neurological changes like deterioration in balance or speech, along with prolonged headaches
Early consultation with a healthcare provider is essential when these symptoms arise, allowing for quicker diagnoses and improved outcomes. ‘While some symptoms may resemble common childhood illnesses, prompt investigation is essential,’ advises Professor Davidson.
In the Cape Town Metro, approximately 100 children under the age of 15 are diagnosed with cancer each year. Even though specific types, like acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, are seeing increases within certain populations, overall rates of childhood cancer remain stable.
Given that general practitioners encounter very few cases throughout their careers, paediatric oncology units like those at Tygerberg Hospital, Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, and Rondebosch Medical Centre are working closely with the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa to enhance awareness and training among medical professionals.
Awareness, vigilance, and early medical consultation are vital in safeguarding children’s health. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to remain observant for persistent warning signs and seek medical guidance swiftly.
With timely diagnosis and compassionate support from healthcare professionals, children battling cancer can look forward to positive outcomes and lives enriched with hope and joy.
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Picture: WCG
