MILE GULLY, Manchester — The condition of cancer patient Shanna Campbell has worsened since news in January that her health had improved, but the 17-year-old from Mile Gully is fiercely holding on to hope of returning to school.

Shanna’s sister, Heather Campbell, told the Jamaica Observer Central that the tumour “grew back”, necessitating “major” surgery in April. She said doctors were only able to remove a part of the tumour during surgery.

Shanna’s situation first came to national attention in March last year in the Jamaica Observer with the Ministry of Health and private sources responding to cover much of her medical expenses.

Earlier this year, she received help in acquiring tested glasses as part of an effort to get her back to school. Her illness had caused impaired vision.

Shanna dreams of returning to school to do six subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) level. Her long-term dream is to teach Mathematics.

Heather Campbell said the glasses have helped Shanna’s eyesight. However, her diagnosis now requires that chemotherapy be done at the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH).

According to Heather, travelling is difficult for Shanna. The tests that should be done before the chemotherapy can be undertaken are now on hold as she is very weak.

Heather Campbell said that since Shanna’s condition worsened roughly three months ago, the “free” public health care system had been of great help. However, she said, there are other associated expenses which make it difficult for the family.

“I feel good (for the free health care system). We wouldn’t have that kind of money to pay for the surgery. We still have to pay for the CT scans and blood tests and fare to and from,”

she said.