Mangaluru: Father Muller Medical College marked the culmination of its month-long World Cancer Day and International Childhood Cancer Day observances with a meaningful closing ceremony that brought together healthcare professionals, cancer survivors, donors, students and administrators in a collective expression of solidarity and hope.
The observance began on February 4, aligning with the global commemoration of World Cancer Day, and continued through a series of awareness initiatives, benevolence drives and community outreach activities. The concluding programme was organised under the theme, “Honouring Every Unique Cancer Journey,” highlighting the understanding that each individual’s experience with cancer is distinct and deserves empathy, recognition and support.
Awareness initiatives and community engagement
The month-long campaign included blood donation and hair donation drives, a NutriCare competition, an ‘Upside Down Challenge’ for awareness, and cancer education sessions conducted for in-house Group C staff members. These activities were designed to promote early detection, healthy lifestyle practices, nutritional awareness and emotional support for patients and caregivers.
A symbolic “Board of Hope” was unveiled during the closing ceremony. Dignitaries, Heads of Departments and childhood cancer survivors pinned messages of solidarity onto the board, signifying a united commitment in the fight against cancer.
The ceremony was presided over by Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, in the presence of Rev. Dr. Michael Santhumayor, Administrator of FMMC; Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator of FMMCH; and Dr. Antony Sylvan D’Souza, Dean of FMMC.
Expert insights on cancer care
The chief guest, Dr. Krishna Prasad, Consultant Medical Oncologist and widely recognised as the first medical oncologist in Mangaluru, was formally introduced by Dr. Rohan Chandra Gatty, Professor and Head of the Department of Surgical Oncology.
In his keynote address, Dr. Krishna Prasad drew upon decades of experience in oncology to emphasise the importance of early detection, multidisciplinary treatment approaches and compassionate patient support systems. He noted that advancements in radiotherapy, surgical oncology and supportive care have significantly improved outcomes, but awareness and timely diagnosis remain crucial.
His address reinforced the institution’s commitment to providing comprehensive cancer care that integrates clinical excellence with emotional and social support for patients and their families.
Recognising donors and student participation
A special segment of the programme was dedicated to honouring financial donors whose generous contributions have supported patient care and awareness initiatives. The Director and administrators felicitated the donors in appreciation of their sustained commitment.
The campaign witnessed encouraging public participation. Over 113 hair donations were received, along with more than 70 units of blood donated by members of the FMCI student community and the general public. Notably, 67 students from St Sebastian School, Permannur, voluntarily donated 13 inches of their hair.
The hair cutting was carried out with professional support from B Plus Salon, and the collected hair was donated to the Indian Cancer Society for the preparation of free wigs for children and adults undergoing cancer treatment. This initiative reflected both compassion and practical support for patients coping with treatment-related hair loss.
NutriCare competition promotes recovery nutrition
The NutriCare competition formed an integral part of the awareness drive. The competition encouraged participants to prepare protein-rich and nourishing recipes tailored to support patients during cancer recovery.
Numerous entries were received, and prizes were distributed during the concluding ceremony. The initiative emphasised the role of balanced nutrition in strengthening the body and aiding recovery, particularly for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
The in-house recipe competition further highlighted the importance of soulfulness in cooking, focusing not only on nutritional value but also on comfort and cultural relevance.
Institutional commitment to holistic care
In his Presidential Address, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo reiterated the institution’s commitment to holistic cancer care. He highlighted the availability of advanced radiotherapy facilities, well-equipped operation theatres, day care units and outpatient services dedicated to oncology.
He further emphasised that the institution’s service to cancer patients, particularly the marginalised and economically disadvantaged, reflects its core mission. This commitment was also reaffirmed during the recent observance of World Day of the Sick.
The Father Muller Oncology Centre, in collaboration with the Department of Community Medicine, played a central role in organising the month-long activities. The initiatives were planned over three months and executed with meticulous coordination.
The efforts of Dr. Nishitha Shetty (Professor, Medical Oncology), Dr. Elroy Saldanha (Associate Professor), Dr. Chandana Pai (Associate Professor, Paediatric Haemato-Oncology), Dr. Jnaneshwari (Associate Professor, General Surgery), Dr. Moira (Associate Professor, Community Medicine), and Dr. Madhu Malar (Senior Resident, Community Medicine), along with other department heads and faculty members, were acknowledged for their leadership and dedication.
Conclusion
The concluding ceremony ended with a vote of thanks and the National Anthem, reaffirming Father Muller Medical College’s steadfast commitment to cancer awareness, early detection, compassionate treatment and community engagement.
By placing the cancer patient at the centre of every initiative — making them bolder, stronger and healthier — the institution has demonstrated that meaningful healthcare extends beyond treatment to awareness, prevention and collective responsibility.
