Gashaw Arega: The Beginning of Childhood Cancer Care in Ethiopia
Gashaw Arega, Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist at Addis Ababa University, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Temesgen and Eyoel’s Legacy: Hopeful Sunday
The Beginning of Childhood Cancer Care in Ethiopia!
The foundations of Ethiopia’s progress in childhood cancer care were laid by two young pioneers – Temesgen Gamacho and Eyoel Fanta. Between 2005 and 2008, both were treated for cancer in the United States: Temesgen with bone cancer, and Eyoel with leukemia.
In 2005, Temesgen, a 12-year-old farm boy from Ethiopia, developed a swelling near his knee that was later diagnosed as bone cancer. The tumor grew steadily, and his mother sold their livestock for $200 to make the long 12-hour journey to Addis Ababa in search of treatment.
Upon arrival, Temesgen’s leg was amputated. Sadly, when the cancer relapsed, there was no further treatment available in Ethiopia. He was later taken to the United States, where he received care at Georgetown University Hospital’s Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology. Despite the efforts, his life could not be saved. Before passing away, when asked by his doctors what he wished for, he answered:
‘Bring the kind of childhood cancer treatment I have seen here in America to Ethiopia. There are many children who need it.’
Though Temesgen and Eyoel did not survive, their voices and courage inspired action. Pediatric oncology specialists in the U.S., in collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health and Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, established partnerships and launched a Pediatric Hematology–Oncology fellowship program. This became the cornerstone for the development of childhood cancer care in Ethiopia.
Over the past twelve years (2013–2025), Ethiopia’s journey in pediatric cancer care has been remarkable and inspiring. Today, nearly 15 pediatric hematology–oncology subspecialists provide services in Addis Ababa and across regional cities.
The legacy of Temesgen and Eyoel lives on.
Neither Temesgen nor Eyoel survived their illness, but their legacy does.
Because of them, children with cancer in Ethiopia now have hope. Many have completed their treatment successfully and are being followed up as survivors. Families – who play an irreplaceable role in the treatment journey – also deserve recognition and encouragement.
Gashaw Arega
Addis Ababa University
Pediatrician and Child Health Specialist
Subspecialist in Pediatric Hematology and Oncology.”
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