In mid-2023, 18-month-old Vortey fell very ill. She developed a high fever and lumps all over her body. Her skin was pale and bruised. Terrified, young parents Kesor and Hok rushed her to the nearest health center.
“They told us our child might have cancer and to go to Siem Reap. I felt scared and hopeless. I am blind and can’t do much for my family. I didn’t know where we could get help.”
Kesor, Vortey’s mother
One month later, Hok left his job on a potato farm and borrowed money from their neighbors to make the 200-kilometre trip to AHC. By then, Vortey’s condition had become critical. Her eyes were swollen and bleeding.
At AHC, oncologist Dr Sam Lyvannak examined Vortey and performed a bone marrow aspiration to confirm the diagnosis. Hok and Kesor heard the words no parent wants to hear: their daughter had a blood cancer called acute myeloid leukaemia.
Heartbroken but determined, Hok and Kesor never left Vortey’s side as she began chemotherapy. Along with the expertise and care from AHC’s oncology team, the social work team provided emotional counselling and funds to travel between AHC and their home for treatment.
“We would never be able to afford this complicated treatment, and with such kind doctors and nurses, I am so grateful. My daughter has become much better already, playing and eating more. AHC is my place of comfort and hope.”
Kesor, Vortey’s mother
Vortey has completed four courses of chemotherapy, and her bone marrow is now clear of cancer. Her lumps are gone, and she is no longer swollen. After their eleventh visit, the family returned home with smiles and hopes. Over the next five years, Vortey will return to AHC for follow-ups and monitoring.
“Day and night, AHC’s doctors and nurses are there for my child. Thanks to them, my hope for Vortey to be completely healthy is now a reality.”
Kesor, Vortey’s mother