Chaikhwa Nani Nelson: Overcoming Cancer and Leading Oncology in Botswana.

Chaikhwa Nani Nelson, born on February 11, 1992, in Tutume village, Botswana, is a remarkable figure in oncology nursing who has transformed personal adversity into a driving force for change in cancer care. Diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2013, she faced the life-altering challenge of undergoing a lower limb amputation and enduring the rigors of chemotherapy. Despite these hardships, Chaikhwa's resolve to support others battling cancer only strengthened. Her journey led her to become an oncology nurse, where she tirelessly advocates for patient-centered care and the need for compassionate healthcare professionals. Chaikhwa's efforts have been recognized internationally, with accolades including the Mandela Washington Fellowship, the Queen's Young Leader Award, and a prestigious Chevening Scholarship, through which she earned her MSc in Clinical Oncology. She founded Botswana's first cancer support group, providing much-needed resources and community for patients and their families. Chaikhwa Nani Nelson's story is a testament to resilience and dedication, making her a pioneering leader in oncology care in Botswana.

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Copyright © 2024, Shanbhag et al.

Déclaration de conflit d'intérêts

Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: Dr. Nandan Shanbhag (first author) and Ms. Chaikhwa Nani Nelson have worked together in the same department, where Dr. Shanbhag served as the department head. Throughout this collaboration, Dr. Shanbhag was actively involved in the development and implementation of various programs within the department, including those highlighted in this paper. As colleagues, Nandan and Chaikhwa have maintained a professional relationship, and their shared experiences have contributed to the insights presented in this manuscript.