FOCP helps 130 cancer patients with Dhs1.98m support

Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) continued to strengthen its humanitarian impact and expand its awareness efforts during the first quarter of 2026, delivering meaningful support to cancer patients and their families across the UAE. During this period, FOCP provided direct financial assistance exceeding Dhs1.98 million, supporting 130 patients with treatment costs, medications, and essential medical services – reflecting its ongoing commitment to ensuring access to care without discrimination. 

At the regional level, FOCP reinforced its leadership role by participating in the 11th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week 2026 in Kuwait, contributing to unified Gulf efforts in cancer prevention and patient support. The FOCP delegation was led by Sawsan Al Fahoum Jaafar, Chairperson of FOCP and President of the Gulf Federation for Cancer Control, alongside Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP. During the opening session, she delivered a keynote address emphasising the importance of unifying Gulf efforts and enhancing collaboration among relevant entities to advance cancer prevention strategies and improve patient care services. 

FOCP’s participation extended beyond formal sessions to include a range of accompanying events, such as the Sharjah Light Festival, cancer awareness run, and other community driven initiatives. These engagements enhanced knowledge exchange, amplified awareness messages, and deepened collaboration with regional stakeholders, contributing to stronger prevention efforts and a more sustainable culture of health awareness across the region. 

Moral Support 

In parallel with its regional engagement, FOCP continued to deliver its Moral Support initiatives, providing holistic care that enhances the wellbeing of patients and their families. During Q1, 558 patients benefited from three dedicated Moral Support activations, including hospital visits, cultural celebrations such as Hag Al Laila, and a dedicated Umrah trip. These experiences enabled patients and survivors to connect with their surroundings, engage in meaningful group activities, and benefit from moments of spiritual and emotional support strengthening their resilience. 

In addition, these combined efforts significantly expanded FOCP’s reach, benefiting over 1,000 individuals through community engagement and screening services. This impact was further strengthened by the dedication of volunteers, who actively contributed across workshops, awareness initiatives, and community activations – demonstrating a growing culture of compassion, engagement, and shared responsibility. 

FOCP’s flagship initiative, Pink Caravan, continued to drive breast cancer awareness and promote early detection through targeted outreach activities. During the first quarter, the initiative provided 238 clinical breast examinations and provided 172 mammogram screenings, reinforcing its role as a key platform for delivering accessible and impactful health messages that encourage positive behavioral change. 

During the holy month of Ramadan, FOCP launched its “Family of Giving” campaign, embodying the values of compassion, solidarity, and generosity. The campaign directly supported 10 patients in continuing their treatment journey, including 4 children and 6 adults, by covering critical medical needs such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, medications, and a bone marrow transplant. 

Holistic care 

Beyond financial support, the campaign emphasised holistic care by strengthening community and family support for patients and their loved ones, in alignment with the UAE’s “Year of the Family 2026.” Community engagement remained at the heart of the campaign, with FOCP organising its annual Ramadan Iftar, bringing together around 300 patients and their families in a supportive and compassionate environment. The initiative also included food box distribution to families in need and Kiswat Eid, providing Eid gifts for children, ensuring that families could experience the spirit and joy of the season with dignity and care. 

FOCP further expanded its outreach through initiatives such as the “Refqa Podcast,” raising awareness around early detection and the importance of emotional and community support in recovery. 

Through its integrated efforts across patient support, awareness, and community engagement, FOCP continues to strengthen its role as a leading humanitarian organisation dedicated to improving the quality of life for cancer patients and their families, while fostering a more informed, compassionate, and supportive society. 

According to a recent report, the Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) launched its annual Zakat campaign to mobilise Zakat funds and charitable donations to provide financial and emotional support to cancer patients and help cover the cost of treatment, while strengthening the psychological and social care system for their families. 

Held under the theme “Family of Giving,” the 2026 campaign delivers a humanitarian message affirming that communities and institutions form a second family for patients, in alignment with the UAE’s Year of the Family.