Kathmandu- The Nepal Childhood Cancer Alliance (NCCA) marked International Cancer Survivor Day by awarding educational scholarships worth NPR 600,000 to 14 childhood cancer survivors. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Ramesh Gupta Memorial Trust (RGMT), Together Against Childhood Cancer (TACC), the Leonardo Edward Shrestha Foundation, and World Child Cancer (WCC), represents a significant milestone in supporting young survivors' academic futures.

 The event brought together survivors, their families, doctors, nurses, and key stakeholders to celebrate the scholarship awards. Survivors shared inspiring stories of courage and hope during an engaging interactive session.

Key Voices from the Event:

- Dr. Bishow Nath Adhikari, Pediatric Oncologist at Kanti Children’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of continuous post-treatment care. “Consistent follow-up is non-negotiable for a cancer-free future,” he stated.

- Mr. Bishop Joshi, President of TACC, stressed the transformative role of education. “Education is crucial for childhood cancer survivors. It empowers them and helps society move past the stigma surrounding cancer,” he noted.

- Ms. Rama Parajuli, Nursing In-Charge at the Pediatric Oncology Ward, Kanti Children’s Hospital, spoke about emotional resilience. “Parental courage plays a vital role in a child’s recovery,” she added.

- Mr. Bhabnath Jha, Program Head at RGMT, underscored the need for sustained funding and resources. “Our shared goal is to offer holistic support to families navigating both cancer treatment and survivorship,” he said.

- Ms. Harimaya Tamang, mother of scholarship recipient and survivor Sadhikshya Tamang, expressed heartfelt gratitude. “When my daughter was diagnosed, I was overwhelmed and unsure how to manage financially. NCCA’s support made all the difference, and now with this scholarship, I am deeply thankful,” she shared.

- Mr. Samrat Rayamajhi, Programme Coordinator for World Child Cancer Nepal, commended the survivors' courage. “Supporting 14 children with educational scholarships is an honor. We remain committed to helping children live healthy, happy lives post-treatment,” he affirmed.

Quote for Media Use:

“Survivor Day is not just a celebration; it’s a reminder that no child should fight cancer alone.”

— Rojina Manandhar, Spokesperson, Leonardo Edward Shrestha Foundation

With strong collaboration among government bodies, healthcare institutions, and both national and international organizations, the Nepal Childhood Cancer Alliance (NCCA) is committed to transforming the pediatric cancer landscape in Nepal. The Alliance calls on all stakeholders to join hands in building a future where every child affected by cancer receives the help they need.

This scholarship initiative follows the official launch of NCCA on February 16, 2025, marking a significant step forward in supporting long-term survivorship and reintegration of childhood cancer survivors.