FOCP’s Dhs3.6m in assistance helps over 136 cancer patients

The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) has concluded its second quarterly board meeting of 2025, with discussions focused on reviewing performance for the first five months of the year, financial expenditures, upcoming awareness campaigns, as well as support initiatives.

The Board also approved the annual report, reviewed preparations for the October Pink Caravan campaign, and ratified Q2 financial disbursements, which totalled Dhs3,637,159 and supported 136 patients across various nationalities and age groups.

The meeting was chaired by Sawsan Jafar, Chairman of the Board and Founding Member; and attended by Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Vice President and Founding Member; Sheikha Aisha Khalid Al Qasimi, Board Secretary; and board members including Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Khawla Al Serkal, Dr. Abdalla Al Zarooni, Ibrahim Al Khayal, and Najla Al Midfa; as well as Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP.

Sustainable charitable model

During proceedings, Sawsan Jafar affirmed the board’s unified commitment to advancing FOCP’s mission under the guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Founder and Patron of FOCP.

She said: “Our strategic direction remains firmly rooted in social responsibility and generosity, ensuring a lasting and sustainable model of humanitarian action. The board is committed to a holistic management approach that balances strategic planning with continuous evaluation, enhancing FOCP’s long-term impact.”

Holistic patient support

Emphasising the growing focus on strengthening partnerships to broaden the scope of support medically, psychologically, and socially, Dr. Abdalla Al Zarooni said: “We are developing impactful initiatives tailored to meet the diverse needs of cancer patients and ensure a safe, empowering environment that sustains hope and emotional resilience throughout their treatment journey.”

Enabling access to important positions

In line with its ongoing efforts to advance regional strategies for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), FOCP announced the appointment of Majed Mohamed to the Board of Directors of the Eastern Mediterranean Noncommunicable Disease Alliance (NCDA).

In this dual capacity, he serves both as an external public health specialist and representative of FOCP. Commenting on this appointment, he said: “This role allows me to contribute to regional health strategies while representing an organization that has long been at the forefront of cancer and NCD advocacy. It is an honour to amplify FOCP’s mission on a broader regional platform.”

Strategic partnerships and international presence

During the second quarter of 2025, FOCP signed an MoU with the Emirates Health Services (EHS) to bolster early detection, community awareness, and financial and emotional support for cancer patients, in line with national healthcare goals.

On the international stage, FOCP participated in the 25th IUHPE World Conference on Health Promotion which was held in the region for the first time in May 2025, where they contributed to a panel discussion on equality and innovation in cancer care and hosted patient-centric activities designed to empower survivors and their families.

Comprehensive care and advocacy

As part of its integrated care approach, FOCP delivered eight patient support events this year with 12 partners, reaching 279 patients and survivors. The organisation also engaged in five local and international advocacy platforms, attracting 225 attendees and producing seven strategic reports demonstrating FOCP's influence on health and community policy.

Additionally, FOCP joined the UAE Oncology Society’s cancer survivor graduation ceremony at the Museum of the Future, celebrating resilient recovery journeys.

Earlier this year, reflecting themes of heartfelt caring and generosity during the Holy Month of Ramadan, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) demonstrated the power of unity and community support by organising a series of compassionate events across the UAE.

Partnering with philanthropic individuals, compassionate companies, and government entities, FOCP’s efforts aim to uplift cancer patients, survivors, and their families, embodying the sentiment of Ramadan through acts of kindness and solidarity.

On March 7, FOCP commenced its Ramadan event series with a supportive Iftar gathering hosted in collaboration with TIME Grand Plaza Hotel (Dubai) for 50 children battling cancer, their parents, and also for survivors. This touching tribute timed with International Women’s Day, also celebrated and honoured the resilience of mothers, whose strength often forms the foundational support of their children’s brave journeys.