ESTER’S JOURNEY FROM PATIENT TO POWERFUL VOICE
In the heart of Lilongwe, a story of courage, resilience, and transformation unfolds. Ester Sande, affectionately called “Lissa” by family and friends, is an 18-year-old cancer survivor from Area 25 who has emerged not only victorious over illness, but also as a powerful voice for hope.
In December 2021, Ester was referred to Kamuzu Central Hospital after experiencing concerning symptoms. Following a series of tests, she and her family received the unimaginable diagnosis: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
“I was quite relieved that at least I had a working diagnosis,” Ester recalls, “but at the same time, I thought I would die.”
Four days later, she began chemotherapy, a journey that would test her body, mind, and spirit. Although Ester’s parents are divorced, they came together with remarkable unity. Throughout her treatment, they coparented with strength and compassion, attending appointments, managing medications, and providing steady emotional reassurance.
Ester’s treatment lasted more than two years, concluding early in 2024. She did not need radiation or surgery, but several rounds of chemotherapy brought significant challenges including persistent nausea and vomiting, severe fatigue, hair loss, emotional strain, and anxiety.
During her hospital stays, Ester found relief at the Lions-supported playground and during play therapy sessions, where life briefly felt normal again. She speaks with deep gratitude about her healthcare team who “held my hand during this difficult time.” These moments of compassion and structured support became anchors during her darkest days.
Some of her hardest moments involved watching her peers move forward while she felt left behind. Friends prepared for exams, social events, and graduation plans, while she prepared for chemotherapy sessions. Missing school meant falling behind academically and feeling disconnected socially.
There was also a silent fear about the future. Ester remembers thinking, “Will I survive? Will I be able to pursue my dreams? Will my life ever look normal again?”
Having recently completed her secondary education, Ester now hopes to pursue an undergraduate degree in nursing, inspired by her love for caring for sick children and her own experiences as a patient. In her free time, she enjoys reading, watching movies, and playing, simple pleasures that brought comfort and moments of normalcy throughout her treatment journey.
Today, Ester stands confidently before crowds as a model survivor for the Global HOPE Program. She serves as a youth emcee at fundraising and awareness events, using her voice to inspire donors, families, and fellow patients.Each time she takes the microphone, she represents resilience. Each time she smiles, she represents possibility.
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