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Donation to KARMA: A new life for 4 underprivileged children

As part of its ongoing work in promoting health and development, Ouidad Hachem Foundation has recently donated for the treatment of 4 children suffering from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia through a Lebanese NGO, KARMA which cares for diseased children and adolescents.

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is the most common form of cancer in children. ALL is a type of blood cancer, in which the cells that make up the blood are replaced by abnormal cells. These cells are essentially made in the bone marrow. ALL is fast-growing and needs to be treated quickly. The treatment is divided into 4 main separate stages that stretches over many years and that can be very high in cost.

The first part of treatment is called “induction of remission” and lasts about 4 weeks. During this part, patients stay in the hospital and receive chemotherapy.

The second part of treatment is called “consolidation/intensification therapy” and lasts for 2 months.The third part of treatment is called “maintenance therapy” and lasts for about 2 to 2 ½ years (120 weeks for girls and 146 weeks for boys). During maintenance therapy, patients get chemotherapy once a week. They also take other medications on certain days of the month. Many patients are able to return to their usual activities during this part of treatment.

Thanks to this donation, 4 Syrian children have been given the hope of a new life by receiving the proper treatment and medication. Nanor Elijian (7 years), Khayreddine Fakhreddine (10 years), Souheila Kanbar (9 years) and Hassan Najjar (17 years) will all receive monthly fees allowing them to continue the treatment while giving them a chance for a better future.
Indeed, the survival rates for ALL in children have improved drastically over the last years, with the current five year overall survival rates being over 85%.

The Ouidad Hachem Foundation is determined to follow the path of good will and health by promoting and financing cases related to this matter. By helping these children get healthy we are honoring the path of the late Ouidad Hachem, and fulfilling her message of kindness. Let this be an inspiration for all, to always look out and help others.