Key Points
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Childhood cancer survivor Tanaka credits support for her victory.
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Parirenyatwa Hospital provided critical care during treatment.
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Life after cancer brings new dreams of entrepreneurship.
At just 13, Tanaka Kungarangadza faced a life-threatening diagnosis: Burkitt lymphoma, one of the fastest-growing cancers in the world.
Today, at 21, she is a proud childhood cancer survivor who attributes her triumph to the resilience within her, the unwavering love of her mother, and the dedicated support of organizations such as KidzCan.
Her eight-month ordeal in 2018 was marked by nine cycles of chemotherapy. KidzCan provided free drugs, costly CT scans, and counseling services that helped Tanaka and her family cope. “KidzCan is God-sent and goes the extra mile,” she said with gratitude.
Equally vital was the role of her mother, Trish Kundiona, who stood as a constant pillar of strength. “Were it not for my mother who never gave up, I would not be here,” Tanaka said.
Friends and family rallied around her, cheering her through moments when the treatments felt overwhelming.
Parirenyatwa Hospital’s care made recovery possible
Tanaka’s treatment took place at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals’ A4 Special Ward in Harare, where doctors and nurses treated young patients with compassion and dignity.
She recalls how medical staff transformed the ward into a supportive space where children felt cared for, both in the treatment rooms and in play areas.
“I am a childhood cancer survivor because of the love, treatment, care, and support I received,” Tanaka said. “They walked with me, held my hand, and lifted me when I was weary.”
Her mother, Kundiona, recounted the frightening start of their journey: a cheek swelling that grew until Tanaka’s eye was nearly shut.
Initially mistaken for a dental problem, a biopsy confirmed it was cancer. Accepting the diagnosis was difficult, but timely referral and treatment gave Tanaka a fighting chance.
Kundiona now urges parents to stay vigilant for unusual changes in their children. “The parent is the first doctor to notice changes. In case of doubt, go to a clinic or hospital immediately,” she advised.
Life after cancer brings new dreams
Today, Tanaka is in good health and has resumed pursuing her ambitions. She passed three O-Level subjects, completed a beauty therapy course, and now assists in a local shop.
She hopes to one day run her own clothing boutique, combining her entrepreneurial spirit with her resilience.
“Tanaka wanted to use her hands rather than rewrite,” her mother explained. “She dreams of being an entrepreneur, and with support, she can achieve it.”
Haematologist Dr. Gilta Guta described Burkitt lymphoma as the fastest-growing tumor known, but emphasized that with early detection and treatment, survival is possible. First described in Africa in 1958, the cancer is aggressive but curable.
Tanaka’s journey from a 13-year-old patient to a thriving young woman embodies what can happen when resilience, medical expertise, and community support come together. Her story is not only one of survival but also of hope for other children facing similar battles.
