It is said that optimists view challenges in life as fuel for personal growth and transformation. With their unshakeable resolve in life, cancer survivors set an example of the human spirit. The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), a UAE-based non-profit organisation committed to supporting cancer patients and their families, shares the inspiring stories and experiences of these courageous champions, thereby uplifting the morale of others embarking on their treatment journeys.

Through shining a light on these stories FOCP is commemorating National Cancer Survivors Day as well as June, which has become the global month of celebration for cancer survivors and those in remission. These heroic and inspiring tales serve to raise community awareness about the vital importance of early and regular screening for all types of cancer, empowering individuals to take proactive steps towards their health.

The Story of A.A.: Every Moment Matters

Following chronic chest pain, a 52-year-old mother of three A.A. received devastating news: stage four breast cancer, with the tumour spreading rapidly. Each moment became a critical turning point in her treatment journey. She recalls the diagnosis as an unbearable shock, adding financial strain to her emotional and physical torment during the initial treatment. Despair loomed until her chemotherapy doctor recommended FoCP.

From that moment, everything changed. FoCP embraced her providing a lifeline of support and encouragement. This beacon of hope and strength was crucial during her darkest hours, especially after surgery and a complete thyroidectomy. Their compassion transformed her battle, turning survival into a journey of resilience and hope.

Recalling her story, A.A. said: “The psychological and moral support from FoCP made me stronger and boosted my confidence, allowing me to control the cancer instead of it controlling me. It was crucial in overcoming this critical stage in my life, and the events they organised uplifted the morale of my husband and children, who witnessed my transformation and improved mental state. These activities felt like a large family home, a sanctuary for all sisters battling cancer. Thankfully, I am now better, stronger, and more resilient, capable of enduring the harsh side effects of chemotherapy.”

The Story of N.M: A love for life

After a misdiagnosis, N.M.’s 69-year-old husband was found to have advanced breast cancer, which had spread to his liver, bones, lymph nodes, and lungs due to smoking. Despite three years of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, his life could not be saved. Widowed, N.M. became solely responsible for their three children.

Determined to prevent a similar fate, N.M. visited a Pink Caravan Fixed Clinic for an early breast cancer screening. A small tumour was found, which might have been untreatable if discovered later. She underwent surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy at Tawam Hospital.

N.M. said: “FOCP helped me fight the disease by instilling hope and love for life, which helped me resist cancer. Even working as a teacher, I remained strong and didn’t show my fatigue. The psychological and moral support was essential in overcoming cancer, and above all, my faith in God’s will and His ability to heal me.”

The Story of L.D.: A Ray of Hope

At 55, L.D. felt no fatigue but was shocked by a breast cancer diagnosis during October, internationally recognised as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. With no family history of cancer, her life turned upside down amidst financial struggles and the need for treatment support. Her journey began with surgery to remove the tumour, but the remnants required a second surgery. Thankfully, tests showed no further spread, eliminating the need for chemotherapy or radiation.

L.D. said: “I faced many challenges, especially the high treatment costs and being away from family. I didn’t want my illness to affect my three daughters. FOCP supported me financially and provided crucial emotional and moral support, helping me fight cancer with patience and hope. This support also empowered my family to care for me from diagnosis through recovery. Today, I am completely cancer-free.”

A collective effort to support cancer patients

FOCP believes that supporting cancer patients requires the collective effort of the entire community, not just medical institutions. Their mission is to facilitate comprehensive financial, moral, and psychological support to patients and their families throughout their treatment journey.

Since 1999, FOCP has been a beacon of hope, rallying volunteers, donors, and support groups through impactful initiatives and programmes dedicated to extending a lifeline to cancer patients, rekindling hope, battling the disease, and curbing its spread. Discover more about their transformative work at https://www.focp.ae/