Sharjah: As part of its ongoing commitment to support cancer patients and their families throughout the year, the UAE-based non-profit organisation Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP) hosted a special Ramadan Iftar event in Dubai.
The event was attended by well-known influencer Aseel Omran and Anas Bukhash, member of the FoCP Board of Directors.
Marking the 10th year occurrence and the attendance of 150 patients and their families, the annual iftar was held as part of the moral support initiative, ‘Colour my World’ — a continuing FoCP programme dedicated to increasing patient-focused events, including performances, sports, games and practical workshops throughout the year. It provides an opportunity for cancer patients to meet and connect with one another, building unity, raising hope and reinforcing a positive attitude.
The Ramadan Iftar programme had a variety of segments that made it a huge success, starting with an introductory speech by Amel Al Mazmi, FoCP beneficiary support manager, followed by Dr Naima Al Ali, who spoke about the psychological effect of helping a cancer patient and how it influences the individual on a spiritual level and Dr Mariam Abdullah who conducted a meditation session for the guests, with some breathing exercises and techniques.
Sawsan Jafar, chairperson of the board of directors at FOCP, said: “Celebrating Ramadan provides an ideal opportunity to bring families together, help them build relationships, share their experiences and support each other in what can sometimes appear to be a very isolated environment.
“Through our annual iftar event, we want to highlight the vital importance of a positive outlook and its tangible effect on the health of cancer patients. The FoCP recognises that the families of patients are also in great need of support and we want to know that they are not alone, they are among friends who understand their own pain as well as the patients they care for.”
The iftar coincides with the FoCP’s sixth ‘I Deserve A Life’ Zakat Ramadan Campaign to support cancer patients who find it difficult to afford treatment. Over the past three years, donations have increased by more than 100 per cent, resulting in a total of more than Dh4 million being raised, supporting 766 patients.
How to donate
The donations will be used to cover costs of vital treatment such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and cover the expense of care from the early stages of cancer to surgical procedures, and even the provision of prosthetic limbs and medical equipment.
Donations to ‘I Deserve A Life’ can be made through a number of channels including online bank transfers, cheques, coupons and SMSes. The donation options for coupons are Dh10, Dh50 and Dh100. You can donate using coupons by visiting the Zakat kiosks that are located at Sharjah Cooperative Society’s branches in Al Sewihat, Halwan and Al Qarayen where the campaign’s teams are present from 9am to 1am throughout the holy month.
