After years of hospitals, painful treatments and uncertainty, 10-year-old Zishan Reddy is finally doing what every child deserves to do – enjoying life.

The Ashton International College learner, who was diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of four, is now cancer-free after receiving a life-saving stem cell transplant from an anonymous donor in India.

His remarkable recovery follows a long and emotional battle that saw him overcome the disease, remain cancer-free for three years, before suffering a devastating relapse.

Now back at school and surrounded by friends, Zishan’s infectious smile and boundless energy are a far cry from the little boy who spent much of his childhood confined to hospital wards while his family desperately searched for a donor.

“It feels pretty good,” he said of his new lease on life.

“I do still have to be careful because I still have my port and I can’t be reckless, but it’s very fun.”

Also Read: SA Bone Marrow Registry to name a star after donor in stellar campaign

The transplant, made possible after his mother, Goolshun, appealed for donors through the SA Bone Marrow Registry, gave Zishan the opportunity he had been praying for.

“When I heard there was a donor, it felt quite good that I was going to live, get out of hospital and that I was going to be fine,” he said.

Although his donor has chosen to remain anonymous, Zishan’s heartfelt message was, “Thank you to the person who gave me another opportunity at life.”

Looking back on his treatment, Zishan admits watching other children enjoy life while he battled cancer was one of the hardest parts of his journey.

“I was sad that I couldn’t go out or run anymore. I was drained of energy every day, I could barely keep my eyes open and I would swell up. I was very sad that I couldn’t be outside playing with my friends.”

His first celebration after the transplant was wonderfully ordinary – going home, enjoying pizza with his family and spending precious time with grandparents who travelled from Durban.

The experience has also inspired him to give back. He recently joined a feeding scheme to thank God for his second chance at life and hopes others will also help those in need.

“I want people to donate because whatever good you do in your life comes back to you.”

Zishan also thanked his family, teachers and classmates for standing by him throughout his battle.

“My friends are very supportive. We play together and if I need a break, they’ll sit with me and chat.”

Dreaming of becoming an engineer, scientist or even a doctor one day, Zishan is embracing every opportunity that comes his way.

“I’m back and stronger than ever,” he said.

Also Read: International donor found for Zishan Reddy