I’m proud of who I’ve become

Just before her 12th birthday, Magda's life took an unexpected turn. What began as a simple fever quickly led to a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin Burkitt lymphoma, an aggressive cancer affecting Magda’s lymphatic system.

Growing up in Split, Croatia - by the Adriatic Sea and near Diocletian’s Palace - Magda's childhood was marked by the simple joys of small-town life. Summers spent on the beach and in a close-knit community gave her a sense of belonging that has stayed with her through difficult times. However, her carefree world was abruptly replaced by the harsh realities of cancer as her childhood shifted into a new routine of hospital stays, treatments, and anxious discussions with doctors.

Words like "lymphoma" and "chemotherapy" became part of her world, and although she doesn’t remember the exact moment that she learned she had cancer, she vividly recalls her parents’ unwavering support. “They made sure I was never alone,” she says softly.

Elevating care

Since gaining independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991, Croatia’s healthcare system has shifted from a centralised model to a more accessible, decentralised one aligned with European Union (EU) standards. Reforms have improved public health, infrastructure and patient care quality, with investments having modernised hospitals and enhanced efficiency. The Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) has expanded coverage and preventative care, but challenges remain, including managing costs, workforce shortages and rural access.

In Croatia, childhood cancer rates are approximately 101 cases per year,¹ with lymphoma making up a significant portion of them. Of these, non-Hodgkin Burkitt lymphoma is one of the fastest-growing cancers world-wide, especially common among children. However, with modern treatments the survival rate can be as high as 90%² when detected early

The onset of secondary immunodeficiency (SID)

Magda’s immune system was already compromised by non-Hodgkin Burkitt lymphoma, making her more vulnerable to recurring infections. Over time, she developed secondary immunodeficiency (SID), a condition in which the immune system struggles to function properly following illness or treatment.

Our immune system is the body’s first line of defence, working tirelessly to protect against infections. However, when it becomes compromised, severe, or frequent infections can follow. This is the case with SIDs which - unlike genetic primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) - are caused by external factors such as illness or medical treatments.

For Magda, her SID led to frequent infections - especially respiratory issues - which required immunoglobulin therapy to strengthen her immune system. Fortunately, recent advancements in SID management in Croatia have made treatments such as immunoglobulin replacement more accessible, significantly improving quality of life for people like her.

"We are committed to raising awareness about immunodeficiencies and working closely with physicians, supporting them with the education and resources necessary to provide crucial support to patients and their families,” says Igor Ilic, Regional Product Manager at Octapharma. “By offering practical assistance in applying our therapies, we help improve quality of life, giving patients with conditions such as SID greater independence and a smoother treatment experience.”

Taking control of her health

Magda first learned about Octapharma's subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) therapy when her doctors recommended switching from monthly hospital IVIg infusions to home treatment. This option was significantly more convenient - especially as she was nearing 18 and preparing to leave Split for the first time.

Moving to Zagreb to study at university offered a fresh start but also brought new challenges. “I was scared. A new city, new doctors, new everything. I had to grow up really fast.”

Octapharma has a long history in subcutaneous immunoglobulin therapy, offering a 16.5% immunoglobulin solution that enhances treatment flexibility for patients. This therapy has allowed Magda to independently take control of her health from home, reducing hospital visits and giving her the freedom to focus on her studies and enjoy life.

"I was often sick, with severe colds that affected my sinuses and led to ear and eye infections. Now, with SCIg therapy, that rarely happens," she says.

A story of hope

Today, as Magda approaches the final year of her master’s degree in sociology, her life is filled with joy and purpose. The friendships, intellectual growth and personal relationships she has nurtured provide her with a deep sense of fulfilment. Though her health challenges remain a part of her story, they no longer define it.

Reflecting on her journey, Magda is filled with gratitude. Her parents’ unwavering love, her sister’s support, and her partner’s presence have been her anchor through the darkest times. Now, she looks ahead to a future full of possibilities.

Her story is no longer just about surviving illness - it’s about building a life of hope, love and purpose.

“I’m proud of how far I’ve come,” Magda reflects. “Not just because of what I’ve been through, but because of who I’ve become. Life has thrown challenges at me, but I’ve learned that I’m capable of handling them – and what’s more: I’m happy.”

References

^{1. Country Cancer Profile 2023. European Cancer Inequalities Registry. Accessed January 17, 2025. Accessible at: 372db8b8-en.pdf}

^{2. Brittney S. et. al. Burkitt Lymphoma. NIH. Accessed January 17, 2025. Burkitt Lymphoma - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf}