Tag: childhood cancer

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September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month – Warning Signs and Types of Childhood Cancer

In South Africa, an average of 800 to 1000 children are newly diagnosed with cancer each year. Childhood cancers share general symptoms with other illnesses; knowing the warning signs can be vital in early detection and treatment.

It is important to know that cancer in children tend to be different from cancers in adults. The majority of them occur in the developing cells like blood, bone marrow, the kidneys and tissues of the nervous system.  The CANSA Childhood Cancer Awareness Programme aims to educate the public on the early warning signs. In South Africa, the St Siluan Warning Signs for Childhood Cancer are used.

St Siluan Warning Signs Childhood Cancer:

  • S – Seek medical help early for ongoing symptoms
  • I – White spot in the eye, new squint, sudden blindness or bulging eyeball
  • L – Lump on the stomach, pelvis, head, arms, legs, testicle or glands
  • U – Unexplained fever present for over two weeks, weight loss, fatigue, pale appearance, easy bruising & bleeding
  • A – Aching bones, joints, back and easy fractures
  • N – Neurological signs, a change in walk, balance or speech, regression, continuous headaches with / without vomiting & enlarged head

Types of Childhood Cancer

According to the recent South African Children’s Cancer Study Group (SACCSG) registry statistics, for 2009 to 2013, the five foremost types of childhood cancers in South Africa are:

Leukaemia
Lymphoma (tumours that begin in the lymph glands)
Brain tumours
Nephroblastomas or Wilms tumours – cancer of the kidneys
Soft tissue sarcomas (tumours that begin in the connective tissue)

Should you have any concerns about your child showing symptoms, you are advised by CANSA to seek medical help immediately. Click for fact sheets on all types of childhood cancer.

Info-graphic © CANSA.

Source: The Cancer Association of South Africa – www.cansa.org.za

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Fundraising for Jan-Hendrik Louw – Malignant Neoplasm (Brain Tumour)

Jan-Hendrik Louw

Jan-Hendrik`s story:

Jan-Hendrik Louw is an 11-year-old boy from Klerksdorp in the North West Province, who was diagnosed with Malignant Neoplasm at the age of 6. He has a tumour on his brain, which causes neurological problems such as shaking and imbalance.

Sadly, the process of his treatment was slowed down because of Lockdown. The tumour has recently shown growth and the doctors are now starting with radiation to shrink the tumour, as they can’t operate to remove it because of it`s location. Due to the tumour, Jan-Hendrik has a slight speech impairment and is also totally deaf in his right ear.

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Jan-Hendrik by purchasing one of his bracelets, two, or the whole set of three. All proceeds from the “Faithful and Worthy Bracelets” are donated towards his ongoing treatment, medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a positive difference!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Jan-Hendrik Louw.

Fundraising for Jan-Hendrik Louw

Faithful and Worthy Bracelets

The “Faithful and Worthy Bracelets” for Jan-Hendrik consist of white and grey wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options:
1. Butterfly
2. Diamante Heart
3. Faith & Hope-Awareness Ribbon.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Faithful and Worthy Bracelets

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Fundraising for Mieke van den Berg – Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Mieke van den Berg

Mieke`s story:

“Mieke Van den Berg is an 8-year-old girl from Rustenburg who was diagnosed in November 2022 with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), better known as blood and bone marrow cancer. Mieke is not healthy at all and is currently in a critical condition regarding her heart. She can’t walk, she doesn’t want to eat and she is very weak.

Mieke will have to go through to Pretoria for chemo three times a week for the next 24 months. She will also have bone marrow drawn to monitor the cancer, every third week for the next 3 months. Mieke will not be allowed to return to a normal school, because Leukemia affects her immune system and breaks it down completely. Having said that, she is very susceptible to any virus and/or infection. She has to wear masks when we go to town, and we as parents, have to wear gloves every time when she gets chemo.

Within the next two weeks, she will get a Chemo Pod implanted in her chest, which is implanted under her skin with a tube that is inserted directly into her main artery. This device is then used to give her chemo every week, three times a week, instead of inserting a drip every time or going home with a drip.

The chemo she is currently receiving is: Doxorubicin and Vincristin, two very aggressive chemo treatments. Vincristine is injected directly into her spine by means of a lumber punch injection, every fourth week under anesthesia. Doxorubicin is currently given directly through a drip, and from next week she will receive it through the chemo pod. Her white blood cell count is still low, because of the chemo, but her red blood cell count is increasing, very slowly, but it is increasing.

Mieke is currently being treated at Dr George Mukhari Hospital at Ga-Rankuwa.
The Medical Aid is busy to Reinstate so everything is on hold.”

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Mieke. All proceeds from the “Miracle for Mieke Bracelets” are donated towards her ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a positive difference and help a child in need.

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Mieke van den Berg.

Fundraising for Mieke van den Berg

Miracle for Mieke Bracelets

The “Miracle for Mieke Bracelets” consist of coral and silver wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options:
Butterfly / Filigree Heart / Hope-Awareness Ribbon.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Miracle for Mieke Bracelets
Miracle for Mieke Bracelets

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Rest in Peace Arno Cilliers

It is with such sadness and a heavy heart that I need to inform you that our brave little cancer warrior, Arno Cilliers, ran into the arms of Jesus this morning. The battle is over now, he is at peace and free from pain. Arno was diagnosed with Stage IV Neuroblastoma cancer on the 31st of August 2022. The cancer was very aggressive and was resistant to various treatment plans.

To Arno`s family:
Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your baby boy. We pray that the light of God’s love shine upon you as you face the darkness of your pain and your grief. Know that God will never forsake you. He will always look after you because you are His child and He is your Father. May you be blessed with the peace and comfort that you seek during this difficult time.

Lamentations 3:31-33:
“For the Lord will not cast off forever. Though He causes grief, yet He will show compassion according to the multitude of His mercies. For He does not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men”.

May God give you all the grace to accept what has happened, and the serenity to carry on living.

All our love,
Karin Harmse & AOM Team.

Arno`s “Guided by Faith” bracelets will be available until the 15th of March 2023. Please contact the AOM agent closest to your area to place an order or shop online here.

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Fundraising for Wyatt Liberty – Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) & Autism

Wyatt Liberty

Wyatt`s story:

“Our Story begins on the day of 1st of December 2012, when my husband Neil and I got married.

We have a baby girl named Ava Eliza Liberty. Ava was born on 03 April 2016. She is a talkative, inquisitive and a stunning rising star.

When Ava was 9 months old, we received our miracle surprise blessing who made his presence known. A healthy baby boy, Wyatt Ethan Liberty made our family complete on the 26 February 2018. A very active boy with an amazing wonderful imagination. Always playing, a typical boy that loved any game that includes a ball made him happy. Apart from the occasional seasonal allergies and cold he was always a very healthy boy.

Exciting times for our family, we started potty training Wyatt – he was doing so well, and was on his way to be fully potty trained until it all suddenly changed.

On the 13th of April 2022 he started suffering from constipation over the long weekend. With the fact that he was potty training it didn’t alarm us too much. We got him some medication at the local pharmacy. By Tuesday we took him to the doctor. On the 19th April 2022 the doctor advised that he is pale and that we should take him for blood work. The GP contacted us the same night and advised that we need to come and collect a referral letter for Karl Bremmer hospital as he has a septic blood infection. Karl Bremmer transferred us to Tygerberg hospital at 00:00 hours -observations and blood works were done. The next day, Wyatt received platelets and red blood cells (blood transfusion).

Due to the fact that Wyatt is 4years of age and not speaking, they advised that he should be tested for Autism. His hearing test was perfect, and they made an appointment for us to see the speech therapist and Occupational therapist.

From the 19th until the 24th of April they completed constant testing and on the 3rd of May 2022 they drew blood, discharged us and advised that they will contact us in a week to advise on the blood results.

On the 19th of May I was contacted at work and was told that the blood works are perfect and that he is discharged. They confirmed that it was a very bad viral infection.

Sadly, on the 16th of May, Wyatt started developing bumps on his head and what looks like spider bites on his legs that made him lose feeling in his leg. Because Wyatt doesn’t speak, we took him to the GP and we thought he had mumps, so the GP advised just for safety and with his history, to get blood work done.

The same day the GP contacted us and advised that his blood works are low and referred us to the hospital, this time to Tygerberg hospital directly and recommended that they complete a bone marrow extraction for testing. The hospital advised that due to his recent blood transfusion they would rather give it 2weeks and get the blood tested again. In the interim while we are at home, we should monitor him closely and see if the bumps increase in size or if he develops a fever or shortness of breath. They gave us a date to return back to hospital on the 6th of June 2022.

On the 23rd of May we took Wyatt into hospital as the bumps increased and started to become inflamed. They drew blood and on the 24th of May 2022, Wyatt was diagnosed with ALL (Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia).

He received his first chemotherapy on the same day as he was in a favorable stage and they wanted to start with the treatment as soon as possible. Friday the 27th of May they did a lumber punch.

Wyatt then received Chemotherapy every 2nd day. On the 3rd of June they completed his 2nd lumber punch. He then completed his 10-day trial of the 1st chemotherapy.

On the 13th of June we received the news that stronger chemotherapy needs to be administered as the 1st round of chemo did not kill any cancer cells.

On the day of my only son’s diagnosis, our entire world and life was turned upside down where nothing makes sense anymore. The only thing that keeps us sane and strong is our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and believing that our story will be a story of surviving, victory and grace. A true testimony of a miracle working God.

Wyatt was also diagnosed with Autism on 19 June 2022.

The mere fact that my son shows so much power and endurance and through all of this still smiles and laughs gives us strength to carry on fighting with him every single day.

We have maxed our credit cards. Bank balance is in overdraft that is maxed. My amazing husband gave up his job to be with my son in hospital for treatment and we are surviving on personal loans that have been maxed. But the grace of God has carried us this far and he will never forsake us.”

All things are possible – (I can endure all these things through the power of the ONE who gives me strength – Philippians 4:13).

Please open your heart to Wyatt and his family today and support our fundraiser. All the proceeds from the “Life is Beautiful Bracelets” are donated towards his ongoing medical care, treatment and therapy. Together we CAN make a positive difference in his life!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Wyatt Liberty.

Fundraising for Wyatt Liberty

Life is Beautiful Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

Life is Beautiful Bracelets

The “Life is Beautiful Bracelets” for Wyatt consist of wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Colours: Blue, Pink, Pearl, Grey mix.

Charm options:
Faith / Hope / Love.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Life is Beautiful Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC
Life is Beautiful Bracelets

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Rest in Peace Skylar Meyer

It was with such sadness that I received the news that warrior princess Skylar ran into the arms of Jesus at 23:40 last night. Her battle with Neuroblastoma Cancer is over; she is at peace now and free from pain.

To Skylar`s family: Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your daughter. We pray that the light of God’s love shine upon you as you face the darkness of your pain and your grief. Know that God will never forsake you. He will always look after you because you are His child and He is your Father. May you be blessed with the peace and comfort that you seek during this difficult time.

May God give you all the Grace to accept what has happened and the serenity to carry on living.

Karin Harmse & AOM Team.

Skylar`s “Warrior Princess” bracelets will be available until the 15th of September 2022. Wear yours in memory of a brave little girl who fought until the bitter end, and who was loved by so many…
Order from our agents or shop online.

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Rest in Peace Rene-Lily Gaskell

It is with such sadness and a heavy heart that I need to inform you that our brave little cancer warrior Rene-Lily ran into the arms of Jesus at 06:00am this morning. The battle is over and she is at peace now and free from pain.

To Lily`s family: Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your Lily. We pray that the light of God’s love shine upon you as you face the darkness of your pain and your grief. Know that God will never forsake you. He will always look after you because you are His child and He is your Father. May you be blessed with the peace and comfort that you seek during this difficult time.

May God give you all the Grace to accept what has happened and the serenity to carry on living.

Karin Harmse & AOM Team.

Lily`s bracelets will be available until the 15th of June 2022. Wear yours in memory of a brave little girl who fought until the bitter end, and who was loved by so many. Order from our agents or shop online.

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Rest in Peace Ricardo Strydom

Rest in peace Ricardo Strydom

It is with such sadness and a heavy heart that I need to inform you that our brave little leukemia warrior, Ricardo, ran into the arms of Jesus today . The battle is over and he is at peace now and free from pain.

To Ricardo`s mother and family:
Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your son. We pray that the light of God’s love shine upon you as you face the darkness of your pain and your grief. Know that God will never forsake you. He will always look after you because you are His child and He is your Father. May you be blessed with the peace and comfort that you seek during this difficult time.

May God give you all the Grace to accept what has happened and the serenity to carry on living.

Karin Harmse & AOM Team.

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Fundraising for Kian Ludick – Nephroblastoma, Wilms Tumor

Kian Ludick

Kian`s story:

“Kian had been having a lot of ear infections in the beginning of 2021. Our GP referred us to the nose, ear, and throat Specialist as well as a speech therapist, because he has not begun to speak and was nearing the age of 2 and they suspected that he has autism. On the date of his appointment he did not give his co-operation with the speech therapist and they decided to make arrangements with a Pediatrician to put him under local anesthetics while they conduct the ear test, and because he was not well, the pediatrician decided to do a full exam also while he was under. He discovered something hard on the left side of his tummy. We were sent for a sonar where they discovered the enlarged kidney. They did a CT scan where they saw the abnormal tissue on both kidneys.

Kian was diagnosed with Nephroblastoma on both kidneys, 26 March 2021, as well as an enlarged left kidney. He has been having monthly MRI scans and blood work in Johannesburg where he is treated by Prof Janet Poole. On the 12th of December 2021, he had his 3rd scan and they discovered the Wilms tumor that developed on the left kidney. He started with his weekly pre-operative chemo on 31 January 2021 in Kimberley, which he gets once a week for 6 weeks. On week 5 and 6 they will do a scan and reassess, he will also be having maintenance chemo after surgery.

The chemo has affected him worse than what we expected. He was admitted 4 days after his 1st session, and has been put on a double dose of blood pressure medication. He had moisture on his lungs when his oxygen levels dropped to 65 and had to be put on oxygen. He had an allergic reaction to morphine, and had a seizure because of nausea medication. He also has a feeding tube. On the 17th of February 2022 he developed a fever and was admitted where they did blood work and discovered he had 2 viruses and his blood counts were extremely low.

He finished his last round of chemo on 21 March 2022. He was admitted and had a blood transfusion and platelets because it was too low. He also had an MRI but we have not received his report or any update when and if they will be operating. Kian is seeing a dietician as well as a speech- and occupational therapist because of signs of autism.”

Update 28/02/2023:

“Kian had an operation on 12 April 2022 where half of his left kidney was removed. The surgery was successful and he was discharged on 18 April 2022.

He started with 27 weeks of weekly chemo on 25 April 2022. We had to drive from Kuruman to Kimberley every Monday.  He was sick most of the time, could not eat at all and they had to give him a feeding tube. Kian is now on chronic hypertension medication. Sometimes he could not get the chemo because his neutrophil levels were too low. He also got occupational therapy, speech therapy and physio weekly because of the autism, and he lost mobility in his legs. He finished his treatment on the 28 November 2022 and had an MRI scan, they were happy with his progress, however he still needs maintenance chemo as the nephroblastomatosis are still on both kidneys in order to suppress any more tumors from developing, and to save what is left of his kidneys.

He started with his maintenance chemo on the 11th of January 2023. They have adjusted one of the chemo treatments because it is affecting his mobility and that is a concern for them. The physio therapist said she has spoken with an orthopedic specialist and suggested that a tension release operation should be done. The pediatric oncologist agrees with us that the cause of his immobility is not a sensory thing but a result of the negative effects of the chemo treatment. Will be consulting with them again on 07.03.2023 when we are in Kimberley for treatment.”

By supporting our fundraiser for Kian you can be directly involved in making a positive difference in his life. All proceeds from the “Love and Faith” bracelets are donated towards his ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN change the world, and help a child in need!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Kian Ludick.

Fundraising for Kian Ludick

Love and Faith Bracelets

The “Love and Faith” bracelets for Kian consist of wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Colour Options:
1. white & blue
2. grey and blue
3. white, grey, blue mix

Charm Options:
1. faith & cross
2. love you heart
3. believe and hope

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Love and Faith Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

Shop Online

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Rest in Peace Arizona Hoy

Rest in Peace Arizona Hoy

It was with such sadness and a heavy heart that I need to inform you that our brave little cancer warrior ran into the arms of Jesus. The battle is over; she is at peace now and free from pain.

Arizona Hoy was only 4 years old when she was diagnosed with High-Risk Stage IV Neuroblastoma Cancer. She had a tumor located on her left adrenal gland which metastasized from its primary location to multiple lymph nodes, the bone marrow and bones. This type of cancer only affects around 100 children under five per year in South Africa. High risk patients have a 60% chance of relapse with no known cure for relapse Neuroblastoma. Despite these statistics, Arizona had intensive Chemotherapy at Red Cross War Memorial Hospital in Cape Town, in hopes of seeing a reduction in the size and spread of the tumors – and she rang the bell on the 28th of February 2020. They were looking into further treatment options for Arizona abroad, and needed to do serious fundraising to make it possible.

To Arizona’s Family:
Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your baby girl. We pray that the light of God’s love shines upon you as you face the darkness of your pain and your grief. Know that God will never forsake you. He will always look after you because you are His child and He is your Father. May you be blessed with the peace and comfort that you seek during this difficult time.

Lamentations 3:31-33: “For the Lord will not cast off forever. Though He causes grief, yet He will show compassion according to the multitude of His mercies. For He does not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men”.

May God give you all the Grace to accept what has happened and the serenity to carry on living.
Team AOM.

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Rest in Peace Mairah Hassan

Rest in Peace Mairah Hassan

It was with such sadness and a heavy heart that I need to inform you that our brave little cancer warrior Mairah ran into the arms of Jesus . The battle is over and she is at peace now and free from pain.

When Mairah was just 15 months old, she was diagnosed with Stage IV High Risk Neuroblastoma, which is a form of childhood cancer. She also had a genetic mutation fueling the cancer, which made treatment much harder.


To Mairah’s Family:
Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your baby girl. We pray that the light of God’s love shines upon you as you face the darkness of your pain and your grief. Know that God will never forsake you. He will always look after you because you are His child and He is your Father. May you be blessed with the peace and comfort that you seek during this difficult time.

Lamentations 3:31-33: “For the Lord will not cast off forever. Though He causes grief, yet He will show compassion according to the multitude of His mercies. For He does not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men”.

May God give you all the Grace to accept what has happened and the serenity to carry on living.
Team AOM.

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Rest in Peace Faith Bothma

Rest in Peace Faith Bothma

It was with such sadness that I received the news that Faith ran into the arms of Jesus on Friday 17 September 2021 at 14:30. She is at peace now and free from pain.

Faith was diagnosed in May 2020 with Stage III Pulmonary Blastoma. From February to May 2021 she was in remission but relapsed with 3 tumors in the brain.

To Faith’s parents and Family:
Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your daughter. We pray that the light of God’s love shine upon you as you face the darkness of your pain and your grief. Know that God will never forsake you. He will always look after you because you are His child and He is your Father. May you be blessed with the peace and comfort that you seek during this difficult time.

May God give you all the Grace to accept what has happened and the serenity to carry on living.

Karin Harmse & AOM Team 

Rest in peace, sweet angel Faith

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Fundraising for Esmae Peters – Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Esmae Peters

Esmae`s story:

On the 13th of July, Esmae Peters (3 yr.) was diagnosed with cancer. It was quite a progressive stage by then as she battled for about 2 months prior to receiving the diagnosis. She has had a few lumbar punctures and completed about 9 chemotherapy treatments .

Unfortunately she recently contracted a blood infection together with Neutropenic colitis and Pancytopenia, which are 2 life-threatening conditions on their own … she was transferred from the Cancer ward to ICU high care. She has had enlarged liver and spleen about 4cm each, distended bowel, numerous bruises and blood clots on her skin and gums, oral sores and also blood and platelet transfusions.

Her medical needs include Physiotherapy, Psychology, Speech therapy, Occupational therapy, optometry as well as dental as required.

Update from mommy, Magdalene Peters, 27/02/2023:

“Esmae is on day 593 in her journey thus far and she’s just completed chemo dose 158!!! True hero style! She remains in Remission 5 months to date and we are so grateful for the repeated breakthroughs and miracles the Lord has been faithful in granting her.

Still a long way to go until the end of treatment which is assumed to only be June 2025. The thought of it is just heartbreaking for all that this Braveheart girl off mine has to further endure, but we believe that God goes before her in all things and she’s gonna carry her Cross gracefully to the end.

Expected are…
29 consecutive months off hospital visits,
11 lumbar punctures,
Countless blood draws n tests,
116 more chemotherapy doses,
Bone marrow tests as required,
And whatever else comes up in this long term maintenance cycle she’s on.

Thank you so much to everyone who thinks of, and prays for us, we truly are grateful and appreciate your support and love. As we totally surrender this season of our lives to Jesus, we believe that He will grant us supernatural ableness and strength to reach the finish line reigning Victorious.”

We ask you to please open your heart and help us to carry the heavy financial burden by ordering Esmae`s special “Crowned in God`s Love Bracelets”, “Grow in Grace Bracelets” and Bath Bombs – all proceeds are donated towards her ongoing expenses where needed. Together we CAN make a difference and help a child in need.

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Esmae Peters.

Fundraising for Esmae Peters

Crowned in God`s Love Bracelets

The Crowned in God`s Love Bracelets consist of wooden beads/crystal beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Bracelet Options:
1) Silver and pink crystal beads with diamante heart charm.
2) Dusty pink and grey wooden beads with diamante crown charm.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Crowned by Glory Bracelets Arms of Mercy NPC

Shop Online

Grow in Grace Bracelets

The “Grow in Grace Bracelets” consist of wooden beads/crystal beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Bracelet Options:
1) Silver, clear & gold crystal beads with Unicorn charm.
2) Silver, white & gold wooden beads with Cross charm.
3) White & gold wooden beads with Flower & diamante Butterfly, and diamante Awareness Ribbon.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Grow in Grace Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

Shop Online

Bath Bombs

These Bath bombs are made from 100% natural ingredients and promise to smell amazing. Bath bombs are perfect as a gift or just for yourself, to enjoy some down time..

Choose from the following fragrances: Rose, Rooibos, Spearmint, Mango, Vanilla, Lavender, Geranium, Lemon Grass. Shop Online

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September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month – New Merch In Store!

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognise the children and families affected by childhood cancers and to emphasize the importance of supporting research on these devastating conditions.

In an extra effort to raise funds for our kids with cancer, we have added a whole bunch of new merchandise to our catalog. Every item sold means there are more proceeds that can be donated towards the medical care, treatment, therapies and emergency surgeries of all our AOM children who are fighting cancer. Your support truly goes a long way!

See all Cancer Awareness items in store

Did you know? In South Africa, an average of 800 to 1000 children are newly diagnosed with cancer each year. Childhood cancers share general symptoms with other illnesses; knowing the warning signs can be vital in early detection and treatment. Learn more.

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Fundraising for Aldrich Kruger – Stage II Metastatic Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Cancer

Aldrich Kruger

Aldrich`s story:

Aldrich Kruger is a young boy from Mossel Bay who was diagnosed with Stage IV Papillary Thyroid Cancer in March 2020, which already spread to his lungs. His thyroid and lymph nodes had to be removed.

He receives Radio active Iodine treatment at the Red Cross Hospital; not chemo nor radiation works for this type of cancer. Aldrich receives treatment every 6 months, and goes into isolation whilst the treatment is given.

He has always been a very active boy, and loves sport and dancing. This has been difficult for him and his family, as he has to fight, and also go through a world pandemic.

Aldrich was recently re-diagnosed with Stage II Metastatic Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Cancer.

He will be chronic on eltroxin for the rest of his life.
He also struggles with eczema and requires medication for that too.

You can help us to lessen the financial burden by ordering his special “Hope and Faith” Bracelets – all proceeds are donated towards his ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a difference and help a child in need.

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Aldrich Kruger .

Follow his Facebook Page for live updates on his progress and journey.

Fundraising for Aldrich Kruger

Hope and Faith Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

Hope and Faith Bracelets

The “Hope and Faith Bracelets” for Aldrich consist of Turquoise, Pink and Lilac wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options: Diamante Awareness Ribbon / Cross / Mossie.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Hope and Faith Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

Shop Online

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Fundraising for Liané Rossouw – Neuroblastoma Cancer

Liané Rossouw

Liané`s story:

Liané Rossouw (1 yr.) was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma in December 2020 when she was only 8 months old. She was due to start her chemotherapy on the 19th of December, but she stopped breathing that morning. She was resuscitated and rushed to the pediatric ICU, and was on a ventilator for a little over a week.

The resuscitation caused extensive brain damage and has resulted in her losing her vision. The place where the tumour was, was also pressing against her spine causing the nerves in that area of the spine to die, which will never regrow, meaning Liané would never walk.

After the resuscitation, she completed 4 rounds of intensive chemotherapy. The chemo she had completed shrunk the tumour A LOT, but it was still active and still there.

We had a discussion with the doctors and we were given 3 choices:
1. Intensive chemotherapy which might help, but will make her extremely sick.
2. Less invasive chemotherapy which will just keep the tumour under control and slow down the spread.
3. No treatment.

We went with option 2, knowing that this chemotherapy is not designed to “cure” but to give us just a little bit more time.

Liané was scheduled to go for a MiBG scan in February 2021, but she was just too weak, so they canceled it. Since her last round of intensive chemotherapy, she completed 6 rounds of less invasive chemotherapy and she was strong enough to do the MiBG scan.

6 October 2021, we got to do the first part of the MiBG and then the second part the day after. I got to be with her while they did the scan. I asked the radiologist to explain to me what she is seeing on the scans if she can after the second day and she asked me quite a lot of questions regarding treatments, etc.

She could not find ANY tumour in Liané’s body. 12 October 2021, her doctors could confirm Liané was in remission and no active tumour can be seen or found in her body. LIANÉ HAS BEAT CANCER!!!

What do we do now?

Liané still needs to receive physio to improve her strength and movement. She still has the feeding tube. Her eyesight is improving and is reacting to lightness and darkness.

Liané has to go for blood tests to keep an eye on her for the next 6 months. She also has to do urine tests and she might do follow up scans to just keep an eye on it.

By supporting the AOM bracelet initiative you are helping to raise funds to contribute to Liané`s medical expenses. Together we can change the world, one bracelet at a time!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Liané Rossouw.

Follow Hope for Liané on Facebook for live updates on her progress and journey.

Fundraising for Liané Rossouw

Anchored in Hope Bracelets

The “Anchored in Hope” Bracelets for Liané consist of gold and pink wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options: Anchor / Hope / Hope-Awareness Ribbon.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Anchored in Hope Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

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Rest in Peace Angelo Pereira

It was with such sadness that I received the news that Angelo ran into the arms of Jesus at 02:25 this morning. He is at peace now and free from pain.

To Angelo’s parents and Family:

Please accept my deepest sympathies for the loss of your son. I pray that the light of God’s love shine upon you as you face the darkness of your pain and your grief. Know that God will never forsake you. He will always look after you because you are His child and He is your Father. May you be blessed with the peace and comfort that you seek during this difficult time.

May God give you all the Grace to accept what has happened and the serenity to carry on living.

Karin Harmse

Angelo was diagnosed on the 16th of July 2019 with Osteo Sarcoma in his right shoulder.

Thriving Angel Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

Angelo`s “Thriving Angel” bracelets will be available until the 15th of January 2021 to help settle outstanding medical accounts. Wear yours in remembrance of a young warrior gone too soon, but never forgotten.

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Fundraising for Elsune Fyver – Brain Cancer & Bone Marrow Cancer

Elsune`s story:

Elsune Fyver is a 14 month old baby girl who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor that is the size of a golf ball. A week prior to the diagnosis she had nausea, vomited, suffered from dehydration, and was admitted to hospital for 4 days. After she was discharged, Elsune became weak and she stopped eating and drinking, crawling, walking, and talking.

They tried to force-feed her but Elsune kept on vomiting with every feed. She had syncope and collapsed. She did not respond as normal and would take a few seconds to look in the direction of mom or dad. She was taken to the ER on 10 September 2020 and was admitted to run some tests. After the MRI and CT scan, Elsune`s mother was informed that her baby girl had a brain tumor.

On the 11th of September, Elsune started with steroid treatment to shrink the tumor, and she had a high-risk operation on the 15th of September. Currently their medical aid is exhausted and they need funds to cover shortfall on scans, tests, operation and doctors accounts.

Elsune had gone for her second round of Chemotherapy on the 25th of November and it’s been confirmed she has bone marrow cancer that cannot be operated on or treated. Mom is hoping chemo will be enough to help her until she is 3 and old enough for radiotherapy.

Please open your heart to Elsune and her family. By supporting our bracelet initiative you can help to raise funds to help pay for her ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we can change her world, one bracelet at a time!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. Please remember to use “Elsune Fyver” as reference.

Fundraising for Elsune Fyver

Forever Loved Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

Forever Loved Bracelets

Forever Loved Bracelets for Elsune; consisting of grey and green wooden beads, crystals, and Jasper beads (precious stones).

Charm options: Heart, diamante awareness ribbon, or crown charm.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Forever Loved Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC
Forever Loved Bracelets

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Childhood Cancer Awareness Month – Join the Fight Against Cancer this September!

childhood cancer awareness month-armsofmercy.org.za

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

In South Africa, an average of 800 to 1000 children are newly diagnosed with cancer each year. Childhood cancers share general symptoms with other illnesses; knowing the warning signs can be vital in early detection and treatment.

According to a 2014 report by the American Cancer Society, it is now estimated that one in 408 children worldwide will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 15. It is estimated that currently less than half of children with cancer in South Africa are diagnosed, and many of those who are diagnosed are in advanced stage of illness. One of the reasons for this is a lack of awareness and knowledge in parts of the health system regarding the early warning signs of childhood cancer. – www.gov.za

It is important to know that cancer in children tend to be different from cancers in adults. The majority of them occur in the developing cells like blood, bone marrow, the kidneys and tissues of the nervous system.  The CANSA Childhood Cancer Awareness Programme aims to educate the public on the early warning signs. In South Africa, the St Siluan Warning Signs for Childhood Cancer are used.

Supporting the fighters, admiring the survivors, honoring the taken, and never ever giving up HOPE

Help us to raise awareness about childhood cancer – knowledge is power! Awareness Bracelets creates an opportunity to start a conversation, and share information about a particular cause or disease, and may help with future research, treatments etc.

Children are a gift from God and Arms of Mercy’s passion. 🎗️ Become a part of something truly beautiful and worthy by ordering and proudly wearing your childhood cancer awareness bracelet this September!

childhood cancer awareness month-armsofmercy.org.za

Childhood Cancer Awareness Bracelet

The Childhood Cancer Awareness Bracelet cost only R40; consisting of gold and silver wooden beads with crystals – and a Diamanté Awareness Ribbon charm. Also available as a plain bracelet (no charm). To place and order please contact the agent in your area or shop online. All proceeds are donated towards the ongoing medical care and expenses, treatments and emergency surgeries of our children who are battling cancer.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Bracelet © Arms of Mercy NPC
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Related post: Neuroblastoma Cancer in Children: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

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Sarcoma Cancer – Risk Factors, Signs & Symptoms

Sarcoma Cancer Risk Factors, Signs & Symptoms

A brief introduction to Sarcoma Cancer, the risk factors and what signs and symptoms to look out for. This post is purely for general information purposes and by no means replace the advice of a medical practitioner.

July is Sarcoma Cancer Awareness Month ღ

Sarcoma is a general term that is used for a broad group of cancers which arise in the bones and the soft connective tissue such as fat and muscle, blood vessels and nerves, tendons and cartilage. This type of cancer can occur in various locations in your body.

Though there are more than 70 different types of sarcoma, they can be grouped into 2 main types: bone sarcoma, or osteosarcoma, and soft tissue sarcoma.

In most cases, it’s not clear what causes sarcoma. Family history and exposure to chemicals or radiation may increase risk.

Risk factors

Factors that can increase the risk of sarcoma include:

  • Inherited syndromes. Some syndromes that increase the risk of cancer can be passed from parents to children, like familial retinoblastoma and neurofibromatosis type 1.
  • Radiation therapy for cancer. Radiation treatment increases risk of developing a sarcoma later.
  • Chronic swelling (lymphedema). Lymphedema is swelling caused by a backup of lymph fluid that occurs when the lymphatic system is blocked or damaged. It increases the risk of a type of sarcoma called angiosarcoma.
  • Exposure to chemicals. Certain chemicals, such as some industrial chemicals and herbicides, can increase the risk of sarcoma that affects the liver.
  • Exposure to viruses. The virus called human herpesvirus 8 can increase the risk of a type of sarcoma called Kaposi’s sarcoma in people with weakened immune systems.

The symptoms and the treatment will vary depending on the type of sarcoma, the location and other factors.

Signs and Symptoms

  • A lump that can be felt through the skin; it may/may not be painful
  • Bone pain
  • A broken bone that happens unexpectedly, such as with a minor injury or no injury at all
  • Abdominal pain
  • Weight loss

Treatment may include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Sarcomas can be treated, often by having surgery to remove the tumor.

Children and young adults get osteosarcoma more often than adults. Because active, healthy children and teenagers often have pain and swelling in their arms and legs, osteosarcoma might be mistaken for growing pains or a sports injury. If your child’s pain doesn’t get better, or gets worse at night, and is in one arm or leg rather than both, please talk to a doctor. Adults with this kind of pain should see a doctor right away.

Sources: mayoclinic.org, webmd.com, cansa.org.za