The story begins with….
Lavaniyah’s daughter was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia in 2021. Hearing the words “your child has cancer” is every parent’s worst nightmare. For Lavaniyah, it changed her world overnight. The hospital became their second home, and fear became a constant companion. But through every sleepless night and every painful procedure, she found a deeper strength within herself.
“I always told my daughter never to cut her hair. Long hair is beautiful. But when life threw us into this battle, I needed to show her that bald is beautiful too,” Lavaniyah shares.
“It wasn’t just about words, I had to walk the talk. That’s why we shaved our heads, so she would know she wasn’t alone.” Much needed words from a mother.
A heartfelt shout-out to the family, the true gems and pillars who have been instrumental in supporting her daughter on her incredible journey.
“The hardest part was carrying a fear I couldn’t share the fear of losing my daughter. I kept my hand on her pulse every night, terrified that if I fell asleep, she would leave me. But no matter how exhausted I was, I had to be her voice. If she was in pain, I spoke up. If she needed help, I fought for her. That’s what being a mother is fighting, even when you’re at your weakest, because your child needs you to be strong.”
Lavaniyah’s journey didn’t just end with her daughter’s battle. She saw a greater purpose; one that extended beyond her own struggles.
“It all started when I was reading statistics, and it was a life-changing moment. I realized that childhood cancer survival rates in other countries are about 35–40% higher than ours. That hit me hard. No child should have a lower chance of survival just because of where they were born. That’s when I knew I couldn’t just sit back.”
From that realization, CCAM was born. November 2022 marked the beginning of something incredible- the official establishment of CCAM by Lavaniyah. What makes it even more special? Her daughter leading the charge as the foundation's first contributor!
This is a movement dedicated to challenging healthcare inequalities, advocating for fair access to treatment, and providing financial and emotional support to families. Countless families have found solace and strength in the compassionate care provided by Lavaniyah and her team, ensuring that no child faces the battle of cancer alone.
In this era, balancing personal responsibilities with a mission as big as CCAM’s is no small feat. Yet, Lavaniyah credits her support system, especially her husband for giving her the strength to keep pushing forward. But, remember having a great support system is a must while you;re going through the hardship.
“Self-care for me isn’t about taking breaks; it’s about knowing I have a strong support system. Even when I’m exhausted, I know I’m not carrying this burden alone. That in itself gives me the strength to keep going.”
Her journey has also changed the way she views life. “During those critical days in the ICU, I didn’t see the outside world for months. I didn’t see the sky, the moon, or feel the sun. My life was confined within hospital walls. That experience taught me that nothing should be taken for granted, not even something as simple as taking a breath.”
On this International Women’s Day, Lavaniyah’s message to women facing adversity is clear:
“Strive through the challenges. Life will throw obstacles your way, but don’t let them break you. Strength isn’t about having an easy path; it’s about pushing forward even when the odds are against you.”
She also hopes to see a world with more empathy, less judgment, and better support systems for families battling cancer.
“When a child has cancer, the family shouldn’t be judged for what they haven’t done. There should be no stigma, no assumptions, but just support, education, and fair access to treatment. Only when we approach cancer care with empathy and a willingness to improve can we truly make a difference.”
Before ends the session, her final words are a call to action for all women:
“When there are no opportunities, create them. Don’t wait for the right moment or for someone to give you permission. If the door isn’t open, build your own.”
Lavaniyah’s story is one of unwavering resilience, proving that even in the face of life’s harshest battles, hope and purpose can emerge. Through her journey, she has not only changed the lives of her own family but has given hope to countless others, indeed the power of a mother’s love and a woman’s strength.
In a world full of ordinary, be like Lavaniyah - a true gem and beacon of inspiration. Cheers to your greatness!