Together, we CAN-SUR-VIVE: Supporting survivors of cancer

Saturday, 24 September 2016 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

For the second time this year and by popular demand, the CAN-SUR-VIVE programme will take place on 1 October at the Lanka Hospital Auditorium from 8 a.m. onwards. A CSR effort aimed at reinstating lost zeal while providing survivors with emotional, psychological and societal confidence, the programme was instigated by the CAN SUR VIVE Trust.

Little praise is given to cancer survivors despite them being subjected to absolute discomfort and distress. It is no easy battle won, and this program acknowledges the brave and bold people who have emerged victorious from the dreadful disease as well as imparting confidence to those recently diagnosed and undergoing treatment presently.

While the programme promised to use the survival stories as inspiration, general awareness sessions were conducted focusing on medical, physical, financial, spiritual and other related issues, associated with a cancer survivor’s well-being.

The last programme, which took place in May saw to a large number of attendees who were given a thorough understanding of the causes, preventive measures of breast cancer. While key individuals addressed the gathering, the interactive sessions saw to introduction of yoga therapy and other motivational deliveries for the survivors.

This time around the programme will focus on female breast and gynecological cancer survivors. With informative sessions conducted by consultants and experts, motivational delivery by Mahanama Dodampegama, a short session by dance maestro Channa Wijewardena on ‘Healing with Dancing’, extended panel discussion and interactive sessions, the initiative aims at enhancing the confidence of both survivors and their family members. Registration is free, and places can be reserved by calling the free hotline on 0713 161616.

Sponsoring the programme once again is Jetwing Hotels, a brand known for being the home of Sri Lankan hospitality. Strongly committed to the care and health of all, Jetwing has constantly focused on uplifting lives through a variety of initiatives such as the Jetwing Youth Development Project, and is also the only major hospitality brand in the country to have three female General Managers.

“Breast cancer is a taboo topic in our society,” said Hiran Cooray, Chairman of Jetwing. “Many fear every aspect of it, thinking it is an immediate death sentence or even a social stigma. This is the second time we at Jetwing are coming onboard the programme, as we were very impressed by the quality of the sessions conducted previously. The CAN SUR VIVE Trust is doing an exemplary job in educating survivors and patients, and most of all are providing a platform to be motivated in this journey towards victory.”