THE KINDNESS OF the Jamaican public may have saved the life of 10 year-old Yanique Edwards.
Edwards' story first appeared in THE STAR in December last year. She was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer, which is cancer behind the nose in October last year. Her mother, Nicole Cohen, came to THE STAR seeking help. Several persons and companies have so far donated money to Edwards' cause.
The cost to treat the cancer was estimated at $1 million. This cost includes treatment at the Radiation Oncology Centre and the Bustamante Hospital for Children.
The plight of the child touched the hearts of Jamaicans both here and abroad and consequently Cohen said they have reached the amount needed to save the child's life. However, while grateful for the public's assistance, she said money was still needed for her recovery treatment.
Starting treatment
"People have been giving and so we are now doing the treatment. We had to do an MRI scan last week as she was still complaining about the headaches but we are grateful because the public responded and we were able to raise the money," said Cohen.
People from all social background contributed to Yanique's treatment. One man, Tony Ellis, said he was touched by the story and as a result arranged that money be deducted from his salary to help the child.
"It's a worthy cause and I'm trying to help someone as I could be in the same position and needed help. It's not much but it will help her," he said.
Still, Yanique's mother was grateful.
"I want to tell the public thanks. I've been getting calls and people have been giving and I'm thankful because I could not do it on my own," she said.
She said the money to do the recovery treatment was just as expensive adding that she had to pay $60,000 last week for one of Yanique's treatment. However, despite this she was thankful that the public heard her cry.
