Friends of Cancer Patients honour partners of drive

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The shared commitment and efforts of the UAE’s public and private sector entities as well as of socially minded members of community in empowering the nation with awareness and tools against breast cancer has become ever-more evident with the successful conclusion of Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP)’s Pink October “Powered by You” campaign.

The Sharjah-based international civil society organisation hosted a Pink October Awarding Ceremony, honouring over 70 partners and sponsors who came together from over 20 different sectors spanning F&B, healthcare, education, entertainment, retail, banking & finance, IT, Oil & Gas, and others to support FoCP’s month-long campaign across the UAE.

The event at Sharjah's House of Wisdom was a prestigious gathering, attended by notable dignitaries including Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Pink Caravan Ride's Special Envoy and Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah; Sawsan Jafar, Chairperson of FOCP; Dr. Hussein Abdel Rahman Al-Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector at the Ministry of Health; Dr. Humaid Al Shamsi, Consultant & Director of Oncology Services at Burjeel Holdings and President of the Emirates Oncology Society; and Dr. Zulekha Daud, Founder and Chairperson of Zulekha Healthcare Group.

Alongside these figures, representatives from various private and public sectors were present. The evening was a celebration of the remarkable accomplishments of the initiative, highlighting the cooperative efforts that drive the FOCP's mission.

The power to create a lasting impact

The gala commenced with a symbolic Puzzle Video, representing the collective efforts of the community. Each piece, a testament to the shared commitment, illuminated the path toward a future free from the shadows of breast cancer.

Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, addressing the audience, emphasised the importance of compiled efforts in creating a lasting impact. “Our collective efforts, united as a community, have the power to create a lasting impact. The collaborative spirit exhibited by FOCP, stakeholders, medical professionals, participating businesses, and the wider community is nothing short of inspiring. As we come together, we are raising awareness while building a shield of support around those affected by breast cancer,” Sheikh Fahim remarked.

The Pink October ceremony honoured over 70 partners and sponsors.

The PCR Special Envoy concluded his keynote address by emphasising the ongoing battle against breast cancer, highlighting the crucial role each individual and organisation plays in this fight. Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi said: “Let us stand united in our commitment to breast cancer awareness. The road to conquering cancer is paved with collaborative efforts, early detection, and a community that cares. Together, we can make a difference and make each step count. Together, we'll create change, one awareness effort at a time.”

"In this Pink October, we have witnessed the power of collective action in our fight against breast cancer," stated Sawsan Jafar, Chairperson of the FOCP Board of Directors. "The Pink Caravan initiative has galvanised the public, private sectors, and the wider community into a united front. Our united efforts led to 515 mammogram screenings and 3,679 clinical breast examinations, involving 3,746 expats and 448 locals. The commitment of the community, healthcare professionals, corporate partners, and sponsors has been instrumental in achieving these remarkable results. Across 105 venues, we orchestrated 111 activities, engaging communities and offering vital support."

Recognising excellence: A night of prestigious awards

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards to organisations and individuals whose exceptional dedication stood out in the collective effort against breast cancer.

FOCP Special Awards bestowed recognition upon Crescent Petroleum for their dedication and substantial contributions, and Merck Sharp and Dohme Corp (MSD) for their devotion to patient-centric care.

Applause filled the room as FOCP Partners, including MSD, Ghantoot, SHAMS, Adnoc Distribution, Omnia Food Trading, House of Wisdom, Kibsons, Global Village and Sharjah Broadcast Authority and National Network Communications, took the stage, each acknowledged for their steadfast support.

The applause extended to Medical Partners such as Saqr Hospital, Zulekha Hospital, Burjeel Hospital, Clemenceau Hospital, MOHAP, and EHS, recognised for their commitment to advancing medical excellence and hands-on care with cancer patients.

The list expanded even further with Awards to Awareness Partners, showcasing a comprehensive network of support.

Lastly, the on-site heroes of the mission were honoured with Volunteers Awards. Sanid –National Emergency Response Volunteer Programme was recognised for its selfless dedication in times of need.