(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) They met to stay connected, share their stories and to spread the word that there is a 'can' in fighting cancer.
On Sunday, Dubai brought together a number of cancer survivors, support workers and health care specialists to celebrate the 28th National Cancer Survivors Day.Sending out the message of hope and celebration of life, Cancer Survivors Day is celebrated annually around the world on the first Sunday of June. This year's event marked its first time in the Middle East.
From nutritionists to charity workers and CEOs to psychologists, the event saw people from all walks of life share their stories about cancer and how it has affected them, with inspirational presentations from survivors themselves.
For Dubai-based Lama Riachi, cancer changed her life for the better. "It's the best thing that ever happened to me. It sounds weird, but it's true," she told a packed room on Sunday.
"It made me look at life differently and now I'm helping others win their battle with cancer."
Riachi, 36, co-founder of cancer support group 'Blessed,' is a survivor.
Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2013, she was given the all clear in early 2014 but through a chance encounter with fellow cancer survivor, Josefina Abaya, the Whatsapp-based support group was born.
Primarily formed for sharing healthy tips for healing, the original three-member group soon blossomed into a 78-strong one of cancer patients, survivors and support workers who now share daily tips and messages of support.
"'Blessed' gives people the chance to connect with one another," co-founder, May Dulay, told Khaleej Times.
As the sister of breast cancer survivor Josefina, May said 'Blessed' is a group, which aims to reach out to those fighting the disease, as well as those who have survived.
"We want to spread the word that you are not alone in your battle," she said.
Also speaking at Sunday's event was criminologist, forensic psychologist, traumatologist and founder of Hissah Enrichment Centre, Lama Younis, who said observance days like National Cancer Survivors Day brings together people from all walks of life, battling the same challenge.
"This event is for the survivors and for those still going through the fight. I'm here for my mum who has battled two types of cancers in the last four years."
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and International Agency for Research on Cancer's Globocan 2012 report, cervical cancer cases are expected to reach up to 372 per 100,000 of the population in the next five years in UAE.
Similarly, ovarian cancer cases is expected to increase to 257 per 100,000 of the population, in the same time period.
As a result, experts have highlighted the importance of early diagnosis to combat disease fatality.
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