“The positive energy from a happy environment helps enormously.”

For immediate release
Sharjah, 08 June 2017

Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP) organised a very special Ramadan Iftar event for more than 100 cancer patients and their families that included entertainment activities, games and comedy shows, for the children.

The annual Ramadan Iftar was held as part of ‘Colour my World’, one of FoCP’s programmes dedicated to increase emphasis on patient-focused events, including entertainment, sports and practical workshops throughout the year. It provides an opportunity for cancer patients to meet and connect with one another, building unity, raising hope and reinforcing a positive attitude.

The event was held in the presence of HE Sawsan Jafar, Chairperson of FoCP’s Board of Directives, HE Mira Taryam, FoCP Board Member, Dr. Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General of FoCP, Dr. Fawzia Abdullah Al Ali, Head of Department of Mass Communication at University of Sharjah, Dr. Naeema Abdullah Al Ali, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Saima Ahmed, Psychologist, Rana Younis Al Zoubi, Dr Fatima Al Sayegh; and a number of staff members from FoCP, the Sheraton Sharjah Beach and Resort.

The participants in the programme, held at Sheraton Sharjah, enjoyed the Iftar meal where many of the patients expressed their appreciation of the support they have received from FoCP, under the generous patronage of Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Founder and Royal Patron of FoCP.

HE Sawsan Jafar, Chairperson of FoCP’s Board of Directors, said: “Ramadan is the perfect time to bring together family members and show strength in the face of such adversity. This gathering is not just a routine Iftar that brings people around a dining table to break their fast, it is an event from which we draw lessons and inspirational experiences showing steadfast commitment and  hope,” she added.

“Through organising these programmes we aim to raise awareness of all aspects of cancer and urge communities to offer vital support not only to the patients, but to their families and friends. The psychological status of the patients can play a crucial role in their response to treatment and the positive energy from a happy environment helps enormously,” Jafar added.

Dr. Naima Abdullah Al Ali and Dr. Saima Ahmed praised the unwavering support given by HH Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi in highlighting the issues surrounding cancer on both local and international levels. They also commended the great efforts made by FoCP in providing various forms of support for cancer patients, which has significantly contributed to making a positive difference in the lives of thousands of patients.

Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP) is a non-profit organisation that was founded in 1999 with the aim of spreading awareness about the six early detectable cancers; breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer, testicular cancer and colon cancer.

Apart from its awareness activities, FoCP provides moral and financial support for thousands of patients and their families regardless of nationality and age. It has so far provided support for more than 3,700 cancer patients and their families living in the UAE.