“The event, which includes recreational programs, aims to support children with cancer and bring happiness to them. We will also enlighten parents about the various treatment facilities,” he said.

Dr. Bakhsh said 80 percent of cancer cases are now cured as a result of the advancement in treatment facilities. “This gives hope to cancer patients and their families. It also changes perceptions about cancer,” he added. Dr. Hassna Al-Ghamdi, director of the tumor center, said about 10,000 Saudis who had cancer while they were children have been cured.

“We are planning to establish a special center for the treatment of children with cancer,” she said. Doctors of pediatric oncology and pediatric medicine will meet at the end of next month to discuss the formation of the unit.