My name is Zuri Olatunji. I’m 15 years old, I live in the slums of ACT, and I’m fighting for my life and for a future.
Right now, I am battling Stage 3 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. The treatment is painful and exhausting, and some days I can barely get out of bed. But cancer isn’t the only battle I face.
My living situation is extremely unstable. My mum is currently experiencing homelessness and is doing everything she can just to keep us fed. We sometimes sleep in cars or stay with friends when we can. My dad, who should have been a protector, has caused me harm instead. I live with the trauma of abuse every day.
On top of the physical pain of cancer, I’m struggling with severe depression. It’s hard to feel hope when you’re going through so much but I know deep down I still want to fight, to live, to heal.
