In a heartwarming and inspiring address at Westwood International School yesterday, Charlene Nadine Motshegwe, our Corporate Affairs Learner Official at Debswana and a two-time childhood bone cancer survivor, captivated school kids with her story of resilience and hope.
๐๐ก๐๐ซ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐’๐ฌ ๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ: ๐ ๐ซ๐จ๐ฆ ๐๐๐ข๐ง ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฉ๐จ๐ฌ๐
At just 16, Charlene’s life took a dramatic turn. After a table fell on her leg at school, she experienced severe leg pain, limping, and weight loss. Initially, doctors thought it was a viral infection, but further tests revealed a devastating diagnosis: stage 2 Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. This news brought immense sadness and uncertainty to her family.
Charlene’s gruelling treatment began immediately. Surgeons removed a massive 5kg tumor from her left leg, leading to frequent hospital visits and long, painful nights. Despite her fear, Charlene, a scared teenager, found strength in her family’s unwavering belief in her. Their support, along with the care from her medical team, provided a sense of normalcy in the sterile hospital environment.
After her initial treatment, Charlene faced another challenge. She fell ill again, and this time, doctors found four tumors in her leg. Despite the lack of medical aid for a second operation, Charlene fought bravely. She was sent to South Africa for the specialized care she needed, where her doctors and hospital team became like a second family. Despite the odds seeming impossible, she fought for her life and continued to fight for her health with her optimism and resilience helping her through the darkest days.
Two years later, Charlene was declared in remission. However, the cancer had left her with a damaged leg bone, requiring a metal prosthesis. Reflecting on her journey, Charlene says, โThere were so many hard days, but there were so many beautiful moments too. I had amazing doctors, nurses, and my family and friends. I had hope, and thatโs what got me through.โ
Now 28 and 11 years cancer-free, Charlene is thriving. Addressing kids at Westwood, she said, โI am currently pregnant and yes, I worry about my child’s health, but I remain strong, even as my pregnancy causes physical strain on my back. Doctors have advised me I may need a wheelchair as my pregnancy progresses, but I remain unfazed, focusing on the health of my baby.โ
Charlene enjoys swimming, spending time with friends, and running her NGO, ‘Diary of a Cancer Survivor,’ which supports kids facing similar battles. She credits her survival to God, her family’s support, the hospitals, and her determination.
As a passionate advocate for childhood cancer research and awareness, Charlene participates in fundraising and speaks at schools, hospitals, and on social media. Her story of survival inspires many, reminding them that the fight for life is worth it and there is life after cancer.
