Warrior of Hope
Young leukemia survivor launches initiative to support patients and promote positivity
TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
At just 15 years old, Bahraini leukemia survivor Ruqaya Abdulraouf has transformed her personal battle with cancer into a mission to support fellow patients through her initiative, "Together We Create a Warrior’s Joy," which focuses on improving the mental well-being of cancer fighters across the Kingdom.
Having experienced the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment firsthand, she believes that psychological support is just as important as medical care. Her initiative aims to encourage patients, particularly children, by creating moments of happiness and reminding them that cancer is not the end of their journey.
Before her diagnosis, she lived what she describes as a normal life filled with school, friends, and family gatherings. "My life was just like any other girl my age," she said. "I went to school, spent time with my friends, and enjoyed being with my family."
Her life changed after being diagnosed with leukemia. The treatment journey was demanding, but she credits her faith, family, and healthcare team for helping her persevere. "The medical staff played a major role in my treatment journey. Without God, my mother, and the healthcare team, I would not have had the strength I have today," she said.
During difficult treatment periods, she developed a mindset focused on resilience. "Before every treatment that I knew would make me feel sick, I reminded myself that it would only last a few days and then pass," she said.
Before her diagnosis, she lived what she describes as a normal life filled with school, friends, and family gatherings. "My life was just like any other girl my age," she said. "I went to school, spent time with my friends, and enjoyed being with my family."
Her life changed after being diagnosed with leukemia. The treatment journey was demanding, but she credits her faith, family, and healthcare team for helping her persevere. "The medical staff played a major role in my treatment journey. Without God, my mother, and the healthcare team, I would not have had the strength I have today," she said.
During difficult treatment periods, she developed a mindset focused on resilience. "Before every treatment that I knew would make me feel sick, I reminded myself that it would only last a few days and then pass," she said.
Initiative
Following her recovery, she launched her initiative using her personal allowance to provide support and small gifts to young cancer patients. "The main goal of the initiative is to support fighters and improve their mental health because emotional well-being is a vital part of recovery," she said.
The initiative was inspired by her own experience as a patient and the positive impact that simple acts of kindness had on her during treatment. Since its launch, the project has expanded through collaborations with various organisations and community partners.
She hopes to raise awareness that cancer can be treated and overcome with the right support system."Cancer does not mean death," she said. "With the right treatment and support, it can be overcome."
Today, Ruqaya continues to advocate for cancer patients across Bahrain, encouraging them to remain hopeful throughout their treatment journey. "It is difficult, but it will pass," she said. "You are stronger than you think. The real challenge is facing the challenge itself."
Through her initiative, she is proving that survival is not only about overcoming illness it is about creating a lasting impact and inspiring others to keep fighting.
The initiative was inspired by her own experience as a patient and the positive impact that simple acts of kindness had on her during treatment. Since its launch, the project has expanded through collaborations with various organisations and community partners.
She hopes to raise awareness that cancer can be treated and overcome with the right support system."Cancer does not mean death," she said. "With the right treatment and support, it can be overcome."
Today, Ruqaya continues to advocate for cancer patients across Bahrain, encouraging them to remain hopeful throughout their treatment journey. "It is difficult, but it will pass," she said. "You are stronger than you think. The real challenge is facing the challenge itself."
Through her initiative, she is proving that survival is not only about overcoming illness it is about creating a lasting impact and inspiring others to keep fighting.
Related Posts