Melodie

Melodie

Meet Melodie Bassar, a 15 year-old leukemia survivor. She has been cancer-free for 9 years.

When she was 4 years old, Melodie was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She had been suffering from recurrent fevers, loss of appetite, and extreme fatigue. Her parents took Melodie to many doctors, but the symptoms persisted. It was not until she was referred to Dr. Roula Farah that a correct diagnosis was made.

Leukemia, the most common type of cancer in children, affects the white blood cells in the body. Abnormal white blood cells form in the bone marrow and travel quickly through the bloodstream and crowd out the healthy cells.

Melodie underwent 2 1/2 years of chemotherapy treatment at Abou Jaoude Hospital. Her mother remembers how kind and caring the nurses and staff at the hospital were with her daughter. They became like family.

Melodie comes from a family of amazingly talented muscians.  Her father plays more than 5 instruments, her brother the piano and flute, her sister plays the guitar and piano, and her mother plays the flute and piano. Music unites them and helped bring a special kind of therapy to Melodie especially during the tough parts of her treatment.

Her mother shares, “Music is the best therapy for children, whether they are sick or healthy. For Melodie it was so helpful.”

It was during her treatment that Melodie chose her instrument: the violin. She started classes at the age of 6 and has continued to this day.

Now that she’s 15 years old, Melodie is in good health. She’s no longer under follow up care. She’s an accomplished violinist and enjoys singing classical songs as well.

Melodie, we are so happy that you’ve regained your health. Your survivor story is a beautiful inspiration. Thank you for sharing it with us