After confirmation of her diagnosis and the extent of the tumor, chemotherapy was promptly initiated on 11th September, 2001. The first six courses dramatically dissolved the tumor and the disease in her lungs also subsided. The next step in treatment was localized radiation therapy that was meant to reduce the risk of reappearance of the tumor. Unfortunately, this modality of treatment meant radiation damage to her ovaries, which would then reduce or abolish her reproductive capability.

In order to preserve Naseem’s ovarian function, a surgical procedure was performed to transpose her ovaries in the abdomen, thereby removing them form the range of the radiation to be directed at the pelvis. Naseem’s lungs were also irradiated to prevent a future relapse.

In November 2002, her end-of-treatment scans showed no evidence of any residual disease. A recently conducted surgery has also brought her ovaries back to their original position following successful radiation therapy. Naseem is now on regular follow-ups and remains a content, normal young girl. She is due to start school later this year.

We at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre wish her a healthy, prosperous and fulfilling life imbued with hope for the future.