Never feel like a patient, advises cancer survivor

Syrian expat Anoud, 42, was sure something is not right with her body when she felt a lump in her breast while taking a shower. " I used to do regular self-examinations almost monthly since I was aware that early breast cancer detection can save one's life. And when I felt the lump, I was almost sure that it was something malignant."

Anoud did not delay and rushed to a gynaecologist who confirmed that it was an early stage of breast cancer. On March 7, Anoud went to Zulekha Hospital for treatment and is on her way to completely recover from the deadly disease.

" I had an operation done on March 16 and chemotherapy sessions started in May. I am lucky that the recent tests have shown that cancer has completely gone now and for that, I am not only grateful to the doctors of the hospital but also my employers at the RAK Economic Zone who supported me emotionally and financially."

Anoud says she has started valuing life and time more now. "I never had time for myself as I would be busy running here and there, doing chores and managing the house. But cancer has been a boon as it has made me count my blessings and I have learnt to live and love better.

Anoud is a single mom of two and was on of the cancer survivors sharing her story at the Zulekha Healthcare Group's breast cancer campaign, 'Pink It Now' on Monday.

The 'Pink It Now' campaign aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer, the importance of early detection and the benefit of regular check-ups. Survivors shared their experiences just after the launch of an exclusive cancer support forum of Zulekha Hospital this year named "Pink Knights". The forum will continue to connect survivors who have battled cancer and emerged successful with a new way of life.

Sending out a message of hope to all cancer patients, Anoud said: "However sick you may get, never feel like a patient. Cancer is a journey, you have to live and love and only then you will defeat it. Let it not control you.live with it and love it."

The attendees included Humaid Al Qatami, chairman of the board and director-general of Dubai Health Authority (DHA); Dr Marwan Mohd Al Mulla, director, health regulations, DHA; Dr Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, assistant undersecretary of health centres and clinics sector, Ministry of Health & Prevention, Dr Layla Al Marzouqi, director, Dubai Medical Tourism Project, DHA; Vipul, Consul General of India, and many other guests.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 8.8 million people die from cancer globally, of which up to 30-50 per cent of cancers could be prevented and breast cancer is the top cancer in women across the world.

Dr Pamela Munster, cancer expert from the University of California in San Francisco, and the campaign's chief ambassador, said: "It is these staggering figures that reveal the important role of early detection in order to save the lives of women all over the world. As healthcare professionals, it is our duty to better educate women in the UAE and empower them to take charge of their health. In doing so, the campaign helps to reduce breast cancer fatalities in the UAE."

Zanubia Shams, Zulekha Hospital Co-chairperson and the campaign's creator, added: "With greater awareness across the country, we are working towards a future of healthier, happier and stronger women."

Source: Khaleej Times