Uthmaan Is Still Waiting for a Matching Donor

Nearly three years after being diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), 12-year-old Uthmaan is still waiting for the matching stem cell donor that could help save his life after he relapsed.

His journey began in 2023, when doctors diagnosed him with ALL following months of unexplained illness. Before receiving answers, he was constantly tired, struggled to eat, vomited frequently and often lost his balance.

Although he initially responded to treatment, Uthmaan later relapsed, making a stem cell transplant his best chance at survival.

Since then, Uthmaan continues to undergo chemotherapy and takes around 18 tablets a day during treatment cycles. Despite the physical and emotional toll, his mother, Raeesah, says he remains hopeful that one day he gets the call that a match has been found.

"Cancer has taken so much from him, but it hasn't changed who he is," she says. "He's still the caring little boy I've always known. If anything, he's become more independent because he's had to grow up so quickly."

One of the biggest milestones in Uthmaan's journey has been returning to school. But even that has come with challenges.

His treatment caused him to miss two years of school, meaning he is currently in Grade 4 instead of Grade 6. Being older and physically bigger than many of his classmates, coupled with the visible treatment-related marks on his arms, has made him the target of bullying.

"The children don't always understand," says Raeesah. "They see the scars before they see the child. That's why we need more education about childhood cancer and what these children go through."

As the family continues to wait for a suitable stem cell donor, Raeesah says they remain deeply grateful to the blood donors, healthcare workers and everyone who has supported Uthmaan throughout his treatment.

"So many people have helped save my son's life through blood and platelet donations," she says. "We'll never be able to thank them enough."

Her message to the public is simple.

"If you're able to register as a stem cell donor, please do it. You could be the person another family is praying for. We are still holding onto hope that somewhere, someone is Uthmaan's match."

Remember, all costs related to the donation process are taken care of by DKMS Africa.

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