Nurul Alisa

Nurul Alisa was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at ten years old. Alisa completed her cancer treatment in June 2023 and is now happily back home. This is her story.

A light dims
Ten-year-old Alisa had always cherished the simple pleasures in life, especially foods such as the creamy delight of yogurt and the fiery allure of sambal belacan. Occasionally, she’d indulge in the guilty pleasure of crispy french fries. Yet, Alisa’s love for life extended beyond her taste buds. She had a profound affection for arts and crafts, dedicating her time to crafting intricate friendship bracelets and embracing the joy of creativity. Her vibrant spirit also found an outlet in the digital world through her love for creating captivating TikToks. Among her many passions, her heart belonged to the Korean girl group, BlackPink, with Lisa being her absolute favorite member.

Following Alisa’s enthusiastic participation in her school’s sports day, Alisa’s vivacious energy was dimmed by a sudden onset of fatigue, her vivacious energy was dimmed by a sudden onset of fatigue. The active and lively girl, who once devoured any dish placed before her, suddenly lost her appetite and refused to engage in her usual outdoor adventures. Complaints of painful legs and knees accompanied her unusual fatigue. Her mother’s concern grew as she noticed Alisa’s complexion had turned a pale white, even her lips, palms, and soles.

Alisa before she started to lose her hair from treatment

Abrupt separation 
Frightened and determined to find answers, Alisa’s mother promptly rushed her to the local clinic, where they were swiftly referred to Hospital Sarikei. Upon their arrival, the doctor’s initial suspicion of leukemia was confirmed with a series of tests. Alisa and her mother were immediately transported to Kuching in an ambulance, their departure abrupt and without the chance for a proper farewell with their family.

In Kuching, Alisa was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), where they faced the heart-wrenching separation from their loved ones. The PICU’s strict regulations meant Alisa’s mother couldn’t be with her 24/7, filling her with worry and fear for Alisa’s well-being. The diagnosis was B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

While at the SCCS halfway home, Alisa took this selfie for her family back home, to let them know she was still in good spirits despite the treatment process.

Finding strength in support
Throughout this turbulent period, Alisa’s mother clung to her unwavering belief that Alisa would recover and their family would reunite. In their darkest hours, the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) provided them with a comfortable haven at their halfway home in Kuching, offering not only a welcoming place to stay but also essential food and transportation for their hospital visits. This invaluable support eased Alisa’s journey through treatment, making it more bearable. Alisa’s mother expressed deep gratitude to SCCS and its compassionate staff for their kindness and understanding during this trying time.

Unleashing her creativity during a painting play session at the SCCS halfway home

Resilience and faith

Alisa has successfully completed her intensive treatment and is currently receiving maintenance therapy in her hometown. Alisa’s mother’s message to other families enduring a similar journey is one of resilience and faith: “No one wants to see our kids suffer. When I found out my child has cancer, it felt like my whole world fell apart. Only we can understand how it feels to watch our children endure so much at such a tender age. To other families, I say: Keep fighting, keep praying, and never lose hope. InsyaAllah, our kids will regain their health.”

SARAWAK CHILDREN'S CANCER SOCIETY