A Birmingham mum who spent a decade treating the sick is at the centre of a £13,000 fundraising drive after she was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
The cash will be spent on pioneering treatment that could give healthcare worker Rabina Aslam more time with her five-year-old son, Armaan.
The 34-year-old, from Erdington, was told she could have just months to live when she was diagnosed with an unusual type of pancreatic cancer last October.
Her friend, paramedic Maya Black, wants to raise cash to pay for Nanoknife treatment, in which tumours are cut away without surgery.
The procedure – not available on NHS – is used on growths in parts of the body where traditional treatment is either considered ineffective or impossible.
Discussing the Nanoknife, US surgeon Dr Aaron Chevinsky said last month: “For patients who traditionally had no hope for treatment, it can potentially extend their lives and, hopefully, in the future, cure them.”
Rabina, who works at Heartlands Hospital said she was thrilled at Maya’s gesture.
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“I was quite emotional when Maya told me what she wanted to do for me,” Rabina said.
“This treatment will mean I have more time with my baby.
“I want to make the most of my memories with him.
“I’m protecting him as much as I can, but if he asks me a question I try to tell the truth.”
Rabina is currently undergoing aggressive chemotherapy but hopes to qualify for Nanoknife treatment at a London hospital within six weeks.
More than £9,500 has already been raised to pay for the procedure.
Maya said: “I can’t believe how it has taken off already.
“It would mean so much to me if we could get the money for her treatment.
“It may not cure her but I think it would give her a better quality of life, and a couple more years with her son.
“She is a beautiful person inside and out, and has spent ten years treating injured and sick people in hospitals.
“She is an angel, and she deserves the treatment.”
To donate to Rabina’s treatment, visit www.fundrazr.com/campaigns/0pUT3
