Lions Create a Safer Space for Children Battling Cancer

The Immuno-Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation Department at the National Bone Marrow Transplantation Center (CNGMO) in Tunis is one of the leading cancer facilities in North Africa. Each year, the center provides 6,000 consultations, averages 500 hospitalizations and performs approximately 40 bone marrow transplants, ensuring adults and children diagnosed with cancer receive the care they need.

Because cancer treatment can weaken children’s immune systems and leave them more vulnerable to infection, a carefully controlled environment is essential for their treatment and recovery. Unfortunately, the facility’s five isolation rooms reserved for pediatric cancer patients lacked sufficient medical-grade air treatment equipment.

With this in mind, Lions used a US$30,210 Matching Grant from Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) to equip the intensive care unit with three mobile air treatment units.

“Young cancer patients were immediately able to benefit from purified air. These children were there either preparing for a transplant or undergoing intensive chemotherapy and are in almost total bone marrow aplasia, a life-threatening condition causing high infection risk,” project manager and Second Vice District Governor Lion Lamia Sebai explained.

For the patients and their families, the benefits extend far beyond a safer care environment. The upgraded units support better outcomes and shorter hospital stays, allowing children to return home to their families sooner. It also means the rooms become available more quickly for other children waiting to begin treatment.

“Beyond the joy of having their child back home, parents face lower medical costs and reduced workplace absenteeism. Above all, families experience fewer negative psychological impacts and less stress,” Sebai said.

Projects like this show how LCIF grant-funded service initiatives strengthen communities and help families in need. Through these grants, they can serve even more people worldwide. Learn more about LCIF Matching Grants at lionsclubs.org/matching-grant.