Resilience, hope and prayers have become the pillars of survival for 19-year-old Aus Settlement resident Christine Muyumbela as she battles leukaemia cancer. 

Muyumbela chronicles a tale of how her world changed last May when she was diagnosed with a terminal illness during her Grade 12 school year.

She said the diagnosis marked the beginning of a painful journey for her and her family as they faced up to the reality of battling a dreaded disease. 

Forced to leave school after the diagnosis, Muyumbela began undergoing chemotherapy treatment a year ago.

Her latest medical test results, however, have sparked a glimmer of hope, revealing her cancer is in remission. 

This has led to a decision for her to undergo a life-saving bone marrow transplant in Cape Town, South Africa, scheduled for next month.

It is extremely important to take symptoms very seriously. If you are not feeling well, seek medical attention immediately because early detection of cancer can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. I cope with cancer by staying positive and avoiding research that can cause fear. I also pray a lot," she said.

A medical fund will cover Muyumbela's bone marrow transplant. 

However, the family is appealing for financial assistance to enable Muyumbela's mother, Jacobina Seister, to accompany her to Cape Town and remain at her side during the transplant and the 60-day recovery process. 

The Lüderitz Town Council has contributed N$30,000 towards Seister's travel and accommodation costs, estimated at N$150,000. 

Catherine dreams of completing her tertiary education so she can support her single mother and two younger siblings.