Mangaluru: Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH), in collaboration with the Indian Cancer Society, observed World Cancer Day and World Childhood Cancer Day with a remarkable awareness and felicitation event on February 9th, 2024.
The Muller “Can-Survive” program, held at the Convention Centre’s 2nd-floor Auditorium, honored financial, blood, and body donors, while also highlighting the triumphs of children who battled cancer. A poignant moment unfolded as child cancer survivors led the evening’s inauguration, symbolized by the floating of paper boats to the tune of “Dhoni Saagali Munde Hogali,” signifying victory over adversity and inspiring others with their journey.
The administrator of FMMC, Rev. Fr Ajith B Menezes, welcomed the gathering, which included faculty, students, and donors. Dr Chandana Pai Asst. Prof. and Paediatric Haemato-oncologist articulated the significance of World Cancer Day before the felicitation of the financial donors, whose contributions aided cancer-stricken individuals.
The Donors include notable organizations and individuals namely: Bishop’s House Mangalore Diocese, CODP, Late Arch Bishop Ambrose Madtha, Lytta D’Souza Mangalore, Konkan Dubai Cancer Patients Foundation, Melwin Peris, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunateshwara Trust, Sodality of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Indian Cancer Society, Jewels Group, Care Child Cancer, Society of St Vincent De Paul, Congregation of the Daughters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Ave Maria Palliative Care, Hearld Moras, Seeds of Hope, Dolphy Pinto, Suresh Kini, Mother Theresa Group, Aasare Balaga; Social worker Vandana Carvalho Social Worker read out the list, and representatives received honours.
The event also paid tribute to the families of organ and body donors, acknowledging their compassionate decision in moments of grief. Reshma Dsa Organ Transplant Coordinator, presented the names of donors, evoking heartfelt gratitude from families for their inclusion and appreciation.
Sheila of the Indian Cancer Society and Rohan Carlo of Veera’s dudes&dolls Style Studio were recognized for supporting the morning’s blood and hair donation campaign and cancer awareness initiatives. A video highlighting FMMCH’s oncology departments and spreading cancer awareness was released.
Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho Director of FMCI, expressed gratitude to donors and faculty, stressing the theological perspective on death and the importance of unity, love, and service to the sick in his presidential address. Dr Kelvin Pais Liaison Officer, delivered the vote of thanks, while Dr Rithesh Dcunha Assoc. Prof. Anesthesiology and K Jonica Johny PG Physiotherapy served as event comperes, with Dr Shiji P Prof. Community Nursing managing the stage.
Following the program, children received dry fruits and toys from the Indian Cancer Society and Herald Moras. respectively. The evening concluded with the Tulu drama “Naida Beela” by Dr (Hon) Devdas Kapikad, bringing laughter and entertainment to the audience of 1000 in the Convention Centre’s state-of-the-art Auditorium.
Reflecting on the event’s success, organizers emphasized their commitment to supporting and acknowledging childhood and adult cancer survivors in their journey towards recovery.
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