Help bring Palliative Care to Indonesia's children

“Thank you for the priviledge of walking with you on this journey, I have learned so much from you. Thank you for the courage with which you faced the grave challenges; they were not easy and, above all, not everyone can withstand them with such dignity. Rest easy now.” – Nurse Mutia to Hikaru.

..................................................................................................

Teenage years might be one of the most challenging times in someone’s life. Afterall, it is the time when an individual is going through significant changes at every levels, physical, emotional and social. During this time, adolescents frequently encounter intensified emotions and a strong urge for self-expressions, which may result in experimentation and risk-taking behaviors. At the same time, they also begin to establish their core values and beliefs, shaped by the influences of family, friends, and societal expectations, laying the groundwork for their adult identities and future decisions.

For a 16-year-old boy named Hikaru, his experience has been starkly different from his peers. Ever since he was 12 years old, Hikaru has been battling Osteosarcoma (cancer that begins in the cells that form bones and most commonly found in teenagers and young adults). Sadly, due to the advancement of his cancer, when he was 14 years old, it was decided that his right leg needed to be amputated, to stave off the spread of the disease. Amid the challenges of losing his leg, facing chemotherapy, and navigating an unusually painful teenage years, Hikaru's mom was always patiently and lovingly standing by his side.

Mother & Son Against All Odds

The bond between Hikaru and his mom was unlike any other mother and son relationship. Hikaru adored and respected his mother with an intensity that went beyond the usual filial affection. She had been his guiding star, the one constant in his life amidst the chaos of the world around him. He might have rebelled against his mom’s strict lifestyle and diet, but deep down he knows she was doing what was best for him, and for both of them. From his earliest memories, she had been there, a gentle yet firm presence, nurturing his dreams and teaching him the values of kindness, perseverance, and integrity.

Despite his own battle with cancer, Hikaru was determined to help his mother in any way he could. His mom had started selling "tahu bulat" (round tofu fritters) from their car to make ends meet. Despite his physical condition and the toll of his treatments, Hikaru accompanied her. His mom would drive through various neighborhoods while Hikaru served the customers with a smile. His presence was a ray of light for his mother, and together, they made a formidable team.

His Life – a Blessing for All

Hikaru's impact extended beyond his family; he was a blessing to everyone he encountered. Rachel House’s nurses, Mutia and Rina, were both in awe of his courage and resilience. Even in the middle of the physical afflictions he was experiencing, the boy would often share with them his love and passion in online games, his excitement in learning coding, and how he dreams of playing soccer again one day. Despite being an amputee, Hikaru inspired those around him to live bravely and shine like his name (translated to mean Light); his warm and beautiful spirit shone brightly, never dimmed in the face of adversity. Hikaru cared for the people around him, offering encouragement and hope. His ability to lift the spirits in others, despite his own struggles, made him a source of inspiration and strength for all who knew him.

After battling osteosarcoma and embraced in the warm cocoon of Rachel House family for the past two years, Hikaru took his last breath in April this year, with his mother by his side. The cancer that started in his right leg and metastasized to his lungs, saw him underwent several rounds of chemotherapy. Despite being saddened by the unexpected news of the metastasis, Hikaru, being a determined soul, chose to continue with the treatment. Sadly, his body could not sustain the onslaught of more chemotherapy treatment this time. As his body began to shut down, the light in his eyes started to dim.

His spirit will continue to live on in the lives he touched and the stories he left behind. Hikaru’s community came together to his gravesite to honor his life; we hear people sharing tales of his kindness, courage, and unwavering positivity. Hikaru's life, though brief, became a beacon of hope and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, light can shine through.

In the aftermath of his passing, Hikaru's mother found comfort in starting her own business, now with the added purpose of raising awareness about helping children like Hikaru and supporting other families affected by it. Through her efforts, Hikaru’s spirit will continue to light up the world, inspiring acts of kindness and resilience. Hikaru's journey showed us all that strength is not just in overcoming adversity but in lifting others up along the way, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew his story.