Monash Health in the media: joy as now cancer-free 5-year-old rings bell

For 5-year-old Ada, ringing the bell to declare she is now cancer free was a joyful moment hard-won.

In 2023, Ada was diagnosed with high-risk stage 4 neuroblastoma. 

‘Even with intensive treatment, she was given the initial prognosis of a 50 per cent survival in the next 5-years,’ said mum, Zilan.

Throughout 2023 and 2024, Ada has had a journey of treatment and care at Monash Children’s Hospital, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and The Royal Children’s Hospital with the goal of being declared ‘in remission’.

‘Ada has had chemotherapy, she has had surgery, she has also had radiation, high dose chemotherapy with transplant, and immunotherapy,’ said Monash Children’s Hospital Paediatric Oncologist, Dr Michelle Martin.

In December, 7News captured the moment Ada and her mum rang the bell at Monash Children’s Cancer Centre, signalling the end of her treatment and that she is now free of cancer.

Team members from across Monash Health joined the pair to celebrate the beautiful milestone.

‘She is just a very strong little soul,’ said Zilan.

Ada and Zilan, we are all so proud of you! We cannot wait to see the amazing things you do in 2025 and the many years to come.