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In honor of Cancer Survivor Month, the event serves as a platform to celebrate the extraordinary journey of survivors who share inspiring stories that bring hope
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A private hospital in Abu Dhabi hosted more than 150 cancer survivors, ranging from those in their octogenarians to teenagers, for an event celebrating their strength and resilience.
In honor of Cancer Survivor Month, the event, hosted by NMC Specialist Hospital Abu Dhabi, became a platform to celebrate the extraordinary journey of survivors who shared inspiring stories and served as a beacon of hope for those currently battling cancer.
Joan Tria, a 40-year-old Filipino, recounts how she battled her “notorious” soft tissue sarcoma to finally be free of the disease and lead a normal life.
In early 2018, she noticed a painless swelling in her left thigh. Clinical examination revealed a large 15 cm by 10 cm mass on the upper thigh. A biopsy confirmed liposarcoma — a rare cancer that forms on fatty tissue. This type of tumor can spread to other parts of the body. Fortunately, in Joan’s case, it was limited to her left thigh. She was treated by Dr Balaji Balasubramanian, Consultant Surgical Oncologist at NMC Specialist Hospital. Surgery was performed to remove her tumor. In addition, radiotherapy and chemotherapy were administered to avoid recurrence. By the end of the year, Joan had completed treatment and bravely overcome side effects. With follow-up over the next five years, she was cancer-free and inspired others to fight the disease.
“As a cancer survivor, I learned the importance of resilience and the value of a supportive community. The expertise of Dr. Balaji and the hospital’s entire surgical oncology team played a key role in my recovery. Today, I am more than Standing here stronger than ever, grateful for the opportunity to celebrate life with fellow survivors,” Joan said.
Breast cancer survivor Amy John shares another triumphant story. In June 2019, she discovered a lump in her right breast. Biopsy confirmed stage 2 breast cancer. After the initial shock, the 38-year-old Indian woman began treatment for triple-negative breast cancer, a rare and aggressive type in which tumors grow faster. Her chemotherapy was very effective. In January 2020, she underwent a mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy followed by radiation therapy. She has recovered and is now undergoing regular follow-up.
“As a cancer survivor, I have attested to the power of medical treatment. The care and support of the NMC Specialist Hospital medical team has given me the strength to get through the toughest of times. Let us embrace hope and encourage others battling cancer, Assure them they are not alone in their journey.”
During the event, patients from different countries and age groups were recognized. Among the survivors, the oldest is 88 years old and the youngest is 14 years old. Patients who have been followed for more than ten years are given special recognition. The campaign honors patients and their families, including their children, by highlighting the extraordinary courage of those who battled and prevailed against cancer during pregnancy.
The aim of the hospital is to raise awareness of the disease and reassure patients that cancer is curable.
Dr. Cherian Thampy, Consultant Medical Oncologist, said: “Cancer is not an insurmountable obstacle. With the advancement of medical technology and the resilience of patients, we have witnessed countless success stories. As long as we work together, we can defeat cancer and re-emerge.” Gather hope.”
Dr. Balaji added: “We believe in an integrative approach to cancer care. Through surgical intervention, we strive to eradicate disease and give patients the chance for a healthy future. We celebrate survivors’ victories and reaffirm our commitment to Compassion against cancer.”
The event united more than 150 cancer survivors and their relatives, medical professionals and support organizations, fostering a sense of community and solidarity. Participants connect with other survivors, gather insights from healthcare providers, and attend educational sessions covering topics such as cancer prevention, the latest treatment advances, and effective coping strategies.
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