FoCP celebrates Ramadan with cancer patients in the UAE

The Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP), the region’s leading cancer specific charity, hosted its 6th annual Iftar banquet for a large group of cancer patients and their families as part of their policy to provide comprehensive patient care. Approximately 50 people, including cancer patients and their families were hosted at Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana-Dubai, who sponsored the event. 

Dr Sawsan Al Madhi, Secretary General of FoCP, said, “In keeping with the spirit of Ramadan and celebrating the essence of the holy month, we seek to help and support the cancer patient, as well as their families, in any way we can. It is an established fact that emotional wellbeing can have a real impact on a patient’s physical health and therefore a vital part of our work is to provide an opportunity for cancer patients to meet one another, share stories, and draw strength and inspiration from each other.”

During the evening the group enjoyed live entertainment and also took part in a raffle with a selection of prizes kindly donated by Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana-Dubai. Al Madhi explained that FoCP not only provides financial support but seeks to provide comprehensive care for cancer patients, providing access to treatment, support to families who need help with transport costs and even ensuring patients are eating a healthy diet as this has a direct bearing on their recovery. 

“So far, FoCP has provided support to over 1,300 cancer patients and their families from all over UAE since its inception in 1999. When a person is touched by cancer, it does not just affect one individual, but an entire family unit goes through a long and challenging period towards recovery. Our motto is we are with you, and the fact is, we stay for the duration of your treatment and aftercare. The Iftar banquet, now an important fixture in the charity’s annual calendar of community events, is such a central part of our community and culture, and is an ideal way to bring good cheer to cancer patients and for all of us to enjoy a memorable evening together. All cancer patients who attended are now part of FoCP’s family, and together with staff members who also attended, we will help them overcome their difficult illness,” said Dr Al Mahdi.

Al Madhi thanked the Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana- Dubai for its generous patronage of the event saying their spirit of giving is a true reflection of the meaning of Ramadan and in keeping with the kindness and generosity demonstrated by the leadership of the UAE. 

FoCP is committed to helping cancer patients and their families get through the long and arduous journey of cancer treatment. FoCP has delivered moral and financial support to over 1,300 patients and their families, irrespective of their nationality, gender, age, or ethnicity. The society is also active in awareness campaigns and screening and early detection efforts in the UAE.