October 31, 2001
Four-year old boy returns to Vietnam after successful treatment at SickKids for rare cancer of the eye
Four-year old Khuong To, (affectionately known as "Baby To") came to The Hospital for Sick Children three years ago for treatment for advanced retinoblastoma --a rare cancer of the eye that causes blindness or death. On November 1, SickKids staff will say goodbye to Khuong To, who will return home to Vietnam next week.
Dr. Brenda Gallie and SickKid's world-renowned Retinoblastoma Team diagnosed the cancer in Khuong To's eye in April 1998 at the age of nine-months from pictures sent from Vietnam. The only treatment available in Vietnam was removal of both eyes. Through funds raised by his family and the Vietnamese Association of Toronto, Khuong To, accompanied by his father, Cuong To, was able to come to SickKids for the treatment developed by Dr. Helen Chan at SickKids.
Today, Khuong To is a healthy, seeing boy. He has undergone almost three years of treatment including ten cycles of chemotherapy, more than 36 laser treatment sessions and the removal of one eye. Currently his left eye has no active tumor. Khuong and his father are now ready to begin their trip home to be reunited with his mother and sister.
WHEN: Thursday, November 1, 2001 - 11 a.m.
WHERE: The Rotunda, 1st Floor Black Family Wing
University Avenue entrance
555 University Ave.
PHOTO OPP: International patient, Khuong To, from Vietnam, accompanied by his father, Cuong To, will say good-bye to Dr. Brenda Gallie and hospital staff members who cared for him.
For more information, please contact:
Public Affairs
The Hospital for Sick Children
555 University Avenue
Suite 1742, Public Affairs, First floor Atrium
Toronto,
ON
M5G 1X8
Canada
Phone: 416-813-5058
Fax: 416-813-5328