(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) I Am Not The Cancer art installation supported by Friends of Cancer Patients unveiled
In an attempt to spread awareness about the experience of advanced breast ca ncer patients the “I Am Not The Cancer” art installation supported by Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP) charity was unveiled on Wednesday.
Members of the public and media attended the event and heard from patient advocates friends and family of cancer patients and experts in the field to better understand advanced breast cancer and what needs to be done to further improve understanding and awareness of the disease. The installation part of the ‘Here & Now’ awareness programme which began in Europe provides a platform for the unheard voices to spotlight their journey. The stark realities of life with advanced breast cancer were brought to life through real-life stories of women with the disease via a sonic installation which used the medium of sound to reflect the isolation felt by these women.
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among Arab women constituting 14 to 42 per cent of all female cancers which is reported to be rising. Advanced breast cancer the most serious form of the disease comprises metastatic breast cancer (stage four) and locally advanced breast cancer (stage three). At these stages the cancer has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body such as the brain and bones or to the lymph nodes in the case of locally advanced breast cancer.
“Advanced Breast Cancer could be a life-changing experience for women and can have a major impact on society. These women have different experiences and physical/emotional needs from those living with earlier stages of the disease and require unique support and resources specific to their needs. At the Pink Caravan FoCP’s pan-UAE breast cancer initiative we aim to drive awareness for early detection of breast cancer and provide the much-needed support to cancer sufferers and their families to ensure they receive the education advise and support during such difficult times” said Dr Sawsan Al Madhi Secretary General of Friends of Cancer Patients charity.
The initiative aims to address these requirements to improve support and care for advanced breast cancer patients across the UAE by improving the understanding of the social and psychological needs.
newskhaleejtimes.com