Alejandra Mendez, Vice President at Childhood Cancer International, shared a post on LinkedIn by The Royal Women’s Hospital, adding:
“This story fills me with hope! In Australia, little Ivy has just finished her cancer treatment and will still have the opportunity to become a biological mother in the future.
This new national initiative in Australia offers free fertility preservation for young people with cancer, giving them the chance to protect their future.
We know that cancer treatments can seriously damage fertility, but unfortunately, very few families can access preservation services.
‘For parents facing the impact of a childhood cancer diagnosis, the opportunity to preserve fertility offers a rare moment of optimism about their child’s future.’
Dr. Genia Rozen, Co-Director of the program
In Chile, we still have an important step to take. The Fertility Preservation for Cancer Patients bill is still stalled in Congress, despite the support of more than 50 senators.
I dream that soon, children in Chile – like Ivy in Australia – will also be able to have hope for a full future, full of opportunities.
I dream of giving every young person diagnosed with cancer in my country (and the world!) the chance to become a biological parent in the future.”
Quoting The Royal Women’s Hospital‘s post:
“The Women’s is proud to lead In Time, a new national service helping young people with cancer preserve their fertility at no cost.
Cancer treatments can severely damage fertility, but too few families can access preservation services. In Time is changing that, ensuring equity of access across the country.
The service offers families more than just survival. It offers hope for future families through a national cryopreservation network, clinician training, and innovative research.
Children across Australia can access this life-changing service, no matter where they live. Referrals can be made by a clinician or a family member, ensuring that support is available when it’s needed most.
Three-year-old Ivy is among the first children to benefit. She was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and has just finished treatment. For her parents, thinking about her future brought them hope during the toughest days of treatment.
This landmark service is made possible by a $6.4 million donation from the Children’s Cancer Foundation (Australia) and My Room Children’s Cancer Charity.
Their vision and generosity are supporting children and families all over Australia.
Read more about Ivy’s journey and the In Time service.”
More posts featuring Alejandra Mendez on OncoDaily.