Merck Foundation launches “Ray of Hope” to promote childhood cancer awareness

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, Germany, in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies, has released a new children’s storybook and animated film titled Ray of Hope, aimed at raising awareness on cancer early detection, prevention, and access to quality care, with a particular focus on childhood cancer.

The storybook and its animation adaptation were officially launched by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Merck Foundation together with the First Ladies of Burundi, Central African Republic, The Gambia, Liberia, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe, and Senegal.

The First Ladies also serve as Ambassadors of the “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” initiative.

The launch took place during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting, held as part of the 12th edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary in The Gambia.

Speaking at the event, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation, underscored the importance of addressing childhood cancer through education, awareness, and healthcare capacity building.

“I am very proud to release today our new children’s storybook and animation film on cancer awareness, in partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies,” she said.

While acknowledging the emotional and medical challenges associated with childhood cancer, Dr. Kelej emphasised that early detection significantly improves outcomes.

“While childhood cancer is one of the most difficult journeys, not only for young patients but also for their families and communities, yet with early detection and timely treatment, there is a good chance of recovery and the possibility of a long and healthier future, as the majority of pediatric cancers are treatable,” she noted.

She added that strengthening cancer care capacity in Africa remains central to the Foundation’s strategy.

“Therefore, I made sure that providing scholarships for cancer care for African healthcare providers is a main part of our strategy. Not only this, but also to focus on pediatric oncology training as much as we can.”

The storybook Ray of Hope follows the journey of a young girl named Hope as she confronts cancer with courage and resilience.

According to Dr. Kelej, the narrative is designed to educate young readers and communities on recognising early warning signs and the importance of timely medical attention.

“Our storybook, ‘Ray of Hope’ highlights this objective via sharing the journey of a young girl named Hope, who faces cancer with courage, resilience, and, above all, hope,” she said.

“The story also raises awareness about the importance of having access to a well-trained cancer care team to recognize early warning sign. These signs should never be ignored, as early detection saves lives.”

Cancer continues to pose a growing public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is now among the three leading causes of premature death.

Dr. Kelej noted that awareness and prevention remain critical.

“It is important to note that nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be treated if diagnosed early, and as many as one-third can be prevented by reducing risk factors such as exposure to radiation, certain infections, lifestyle-related causes, and more,” she said.

As part of its Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation has provided 239 scholarships to healthcare providers from 35 countries, supporting training across multiple oncology sub-specialties.

These include medical, surgical, pediatric, gynecological, breast, and hematological oncology, as well as palliative care, pathology, radiation oncology, oncology nursing, and related disciplines.

The Foundation also supports postgraduate diplomas and master’s degrees in oncology and pain management through partnerships with universities in the United Kingdom, including the University of South Wales, the University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.

“We are proud to be making history in Africa by training the first oncologists and building the first cancer care teams in several nations, ensuring that patients receive the care they deserve,” Dr. Kelej added.

To date, Merck Foundation has provided more than 2,500 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries across 44 underserved medical specialties.

The Ray of Hope storybook and animation film are currently available on the Foundation’s website and social media platforms and will be distributed in partner countries.

Each edition will include a special message from Dr. Kelej and the respective First Ladies and will be available in English, French, and Portuguese.

“I believe that education through storytelling and animation is a powerful tool to build a more informed, empathetic, and healthier generation,” Dr. Kelej said.

Help us tell more untold stories of African Philanthropy!