Children At St. Jude India ChildCare Centres battling Childhood Cancer with a Smile

In India, childhood cancer accounts for approximately 4% of all cancers, affecting thousands of young lives each year. Recently, I visited St. Jude India ChildCare Centres at Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai Port Trust. What I witnessed left a deep impact on me.

As I entered, I saw children deeply engrossed in their activities, painting, playing chess, and dancing. But then reality struck. These same children, so full of life, were also battling cancer. They had bandages from their treatments, yet their spirit remained unshaken.

Ms. Sasmita Sahani shared how children from across India stay here while receiving treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital. St. Jude India provides them a home away from home – a safe space where every room is thoughtfully designed, access to clean kitchens, and stringent hygiene measures to prevent infections.

Sanitation is a top priority. Toilets are cleaned multiple times a day, and deep cleaning is conducted weekly. The dedication of sanitation workers ensures a hygienic environment, essential for children with weakened immunity. Bio-hazardous waste is carefully segregated and disposed of to prevent infections, with red bins placed strategically to ensure safety for all.

Beyond medical care, the centre focuses on holistic healing. Children learn life skills through games, music, and dance. Parents engage in activities, ensuring emotional well-being for the entire family. The caregivers and support staff work tirelessly to create a nurturing space.

The biggest lesson? Resilience. The children remind us what it means to fight with a smile. As we left, their joyful “Bye-Bye” and cheerful waves filled my heart with warmth.

Want to make a difference? Volunteer with St. Jude India and be part of this incredible journey. Scan the QR Code and experience the joy of being with brave hearts!