Oman Cancer Association relaunched the Survivor’s Program on Saturday, June 1st, as it is observed as the month of Cancer Survivors.
On the occasion, the Association appreciated the cancer warriors & launched the campaign of 365 days of cancer awareness.
The founder of OCA, Yuthar al Rawahi, said the non-government organizatio, that has been recognised internationally, has been successful through screenings and early detection, leading to early diagnosis because of which many patients have been cured and has also resulted in reducing number of cases linked with pathology.
“How did we do it? We worked together through every challenge, in creating awareness and community advocacy. The tools used were education and Human Resources development. The development of Oman Cancer Survivors Group in 2004, which we are relaunching today, was achieved by training survivors who wholeheartedly working together to become volunteers to serve the community as one unit to continue our success story. This is the requirement at the moment,” said Yuthar al Rawahi.
OCA will continue to conduct further training explained the Chairman of Oman Cancer Association, Dr Waheed al Kharousi.
The core of training for the Omanis and residents in the Cancer Survivors Group will focus on advocacy, leadership, fundraising, nutrition, healthy lifestyle, nutrition, counseling, spirituality and patient care to offer empowerment.
“Because if our cancer survivors are not empowered we cannot move forward,” he said adding,
“We want them to be empowered so they can serve the community. This is the only way to solidify the power of survivorship program. This program is our top priority. Together we are strong and only together we can make a difference for our patients, their families and the community. We cannot afford to increase the number of cancer cases in Oman,” pointed out Dr Waheed al Kharousi, Chairman of Oman Cancer Association.
Oman Cancer Association has been the main organisation that has constantly been involved in spreading awareness in the community through various programs including having the Mammogram Units available in various parts of Oman, the Annual walkathon, training and other various activities for awareness especially on regular screening for early detection.
On the occasion, the launching of the 365 Days Cancer Awareness Campaign was held,
which is an initiative to spread awareness throughout the year bringing focus to all the types of cancer.
The logo was launched by Guest of Honour, Dr Rashid bin Mohammed al Gailani, who appreciated the role of cancer survivors as cancer warriors to spread awareness and provide support.
Speaking on the logo and the campaign titled , ‘365 days of Cancer Awareness,’ Dr Rajyashree N Kutty said, “The goal is to be achieved not only by the doctors and health care professionals, but with motivation by the people, every individual and their family members, educational institutions including schools and colleges, organisations, companies all over to spread cancer awareness.”
She said it is important to remove the fear of Cancer and instill hope and confidence by going for regular Check ups as early detection is the key to cure that can saves lives.
The survivors, according to OCA team are the warriors and so are the most important ambassadors who can motivate, generate hope and alleviate fear.
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