Strathmore Leos flyhalf seeks support as cancer returns after seven years
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Reading Time: 3min | Mon. 02.09.24. | 19:53
Tende was first diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer back in 2015, shortly after completing high school
Talented Strathmore Leos flyhalf Harold Tende alias Roldie is appealing for financial help after his battle with cancer took a devastating turn.
Following seven years of being cancer-free, the disease has resurfaced, this time affecting his lung.
He is currently undergoing intensive treatment, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy and the financial burden has become overwhelming.
“Together for Roldie, a beloved member of our team who is courageously battling cancer once again. After being cancer-free since 2016, the fight has returned. We need your support. Donate or buy merchandise to help fund his treatment,” Strathmore Leos posted on the social media handles.
Tende was first diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer back in 2015, shortly after completing high school.
As he described, the diagnosis came as no surprise to him given the severity and persistence of his symptoms. He endured persistent nosebleeds and a debilitating headache that lasted for six straight months, all while preparing for his final exams.
“It was that period that I was preparing to do my final exams. I was in and out in school because I was going for checkups. There was a time when even my parent was concerned, thinking that I was afraid of the exams. I had lots of misdiagnoses during that time. It was taking a toll on me. When I was finally diagnosed, I was not surprised,” he offered.
Facing treatment for the first time, Tende revealed that he had to prepare himself mentally.
The physical toll was immense, and at times he had to rely on a feeding tube.
There were days when he lost the ability to speak or walk, and even struggled with vision issues.
However, in 2016, he was declared cancer-free and he focused on getting back to his normal life.
For nearly seven years, Harold maintained his discipline, determined to stay healthy and excel in the sport he loved.
“I was cancer free for almost seven years before the cancer cell moved to my lung and started growing until my second diagnosis, I was told it is back. I did not let anything stop me from achieving what I want,” he disclosed.
Unfortunately, earlier this year, he received the devastating news that the cancer had returned, this time spreading to his lungs. Initially, it was head and neck cancer.
Despite the setback, Tende remains optimistic that it will also pass.
His doctor has also noted improvements in his condition, and Tende is committed to seeing this last phase of treatment through, hoping it will restore him to full health.
“Some patients hardly finish the therapies because your body can take a toll on you. I am feeling much better and I look better. I want this last phase to work out so I can go back to normalcy,” he told Mozzart Sport.
Even after completing treatment, Tende will continue regular checkups due to his weakened immune system. He acknowledged the support of his family and the rugby community throughout his journey.
Tende further admitted that facing the disease twice has deepened his appreciation for each day and reinforced the importance of resilience.
“Never take any day above the ground for granted, do not let anything put you down and so not give up, just get up and keep moving. Life does not stop just because you are feeling low. The beauty of it is you will eventually get through,” he advised.
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Looking ahead, his goals remain clear. He is determined to be a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who hear his story.
“I want to get back to fitness and train for rugby. I like the game and the people. I also want to go back to school, and to regain my mental, physical, and emotional aspects to 100%,” he concluded.
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