The State Cancer Society of Meghalaya and the Oncology Department of Shillong Civil Hospital observed National Cancer Survivors Day today at the DAE-Civil Hospital Cancer Wing under the theme ‘A Celebration of Life’.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh was the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, Lyngdoh said that the day is marked as a celebration for those who have battled and won and also to help bring hope to those still fighting the disease.
Cancer treatment is not an individual fight as the government is committed to ensure that people are provided with the best possible treatment. The state is striving to bring the latest medical equipment and facilities to every district of the state, she added. The minister also acknowledged the remarkable commitments of the doctors, nurses and all the health professionals for providing treatment and their compassionate care and support to the patients.
In his address, Principal Secretary in the Health Department, Sampath Kumar, stressed that regular screening and early detection are vital in the struggle against cancer. Kumar said that the government is making an effort to provide care through the Cancer Wing of Shillong Civil Hospital for more than 7,000 patients every year. Healthcare, he added, has been allocated close to 9 percent of the state budget.
During the programme, cancer survivors shared testimonies of their journey, diagnosis and treatment and they also urged and inspired others who are undergoing treatment to have a positive mindset and approach to overcome the disease.
Other speakers at the programme included Dr A Mawlong, Head of the Oncology Department at the hospital, and Dr FV Kharshiing, Director of Health Services (MI) in the Department of Health and Family Welfare.
