A Helping Hand for Kids with Cancer

Every year, more than 4,000 children are afflicted with different forms of cancer, according to National Commission for Child Protection (KPAI) data. Although universal medical treatment is covered by the Healthcare Social Security Agency (BPJS Kesehatan), many of them come from lower- to middle-income families, with some living in rural areas. Many sick children, therefore, fail to get proper medical attention because most health facilities providing cancer treatment are located in urban areas. Non-governmental organizations like the Rumahku shelter in Banjarmasin and the C-Four Community in Banda Aceh provide a real boon to their local societies by offering free temporary accommodation for child patients with cancer and their families. In conjunction with the National Children's Day on July 23, Tempo English reports on community programs in South Kalimantan and Aceh to help cancer-afflicted children.