SIBU: The ‘Samuel Beats Cancer’ Balloon Maze event held by Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) is able to create greater awareness and bring childhood cancer into the spotlight, said Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee.
Therefore, the Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government urged the public to support the programme.
“The more people know about it, the more support we will get and in turn will benefit both the patients and the parents,” he said in his speech at the event launching ceremony at Wisma Sanyan here today.
The Pelawan assemblyman added that the ‘Samuel Beats Cancer’ Balloon Maze was designed to raise awareness and rally support for children facing the immense challenge of cancer.
“There is a lot more emotional stress and pressure on the children while they try to get through cancer treatment.
“The journey is often painful and difficult; it is not just about losing hair and feeling unwell most of the time, but there is a lot more happening in the child; emotionally and psychologically,” he stressed.
Tiang said that it was heartbreaking for parents whose children have cancer, hence greater awareness and support is important to ensure these children could receive the best possible medical treatment.
“For parents, it is important that we provide them with some support, letting them know that they are not alone in this journey. It is crucial for their emotional and mental well-being,” he emphasised.
Tiang said according to SCCS, a child in Sarawak is diagnosed with cancer every five days, with 60 to 70 new cases annually.
He said according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), cancer is a leading cause of death among children and adolescents.
Unlike adult cancers, most childhood cancers lack a known cause and cannot typically be prevented or detected through screening.
“However, early detection is crucial because many childhood cancers can be successfully treated when identified early. Increasing awareness about the importance of early diagnosis can significantly improve survival rates.
“Over the past few decades, treatment for childhood cancer has advanced considerably due to medical research and technological innovations, offering more hope for recovery.
“Raising awareness through events like today’s is essential to empower parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers to recognise the early signs of childhood cancer and take prompt action, which can make a life-saving difference, “he added.
The Balloon Maze programme which is held from Sept 27 to 29 featuring life-sized balloon sculptures, tells the real-life story of Miri-born Samuel who was diagnosed with cancer at just three and a half years old.
The maze traces his journey from early symptoms with diagnosis through treatment, remission and survivorship.
Also present was SCCS president Mary Kiu.
