To mark World Cancer Day this year, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre organised a carnival in Lahore for children who are cancer fighters and survivors. Such events play an important role in providing psychological relief for young ones going through a challenging and stressful time in their lives, creating moments of joy, and promoting their mental wellbeing along with their physical health. The fun-filled day featured entertaining activities for paediatric cancer patients, including games, jumping castles, rides, magic show and a puppet show. Generous supporters from different corporate organisations offered free of charge merchandise for children, including clothing and food, and their employees also volunteered at the event: Hush Puppies, Shakarganj, Pearl Continental, Outfitters, Wateen, Teradata, Cure MD, Techmate Tech, Ten X, HBL, Intech Co., Topdot, and Cheezious.
Actor and social activist Nadia Jamil joined the event and brought smiles to children with her story-telling. She also shared her experience of fighting cancer, bringing strength to parents that they should never lose hope. On this occasion, she said, “It’s a privilege to be able to tell stories and bring puppets to the children undergoing cancer treatment at Shaukat Khanum Hospital. Watching their smiles and hearing their laughter is balm for the soul. Their parents are the most remarkable warriors and the children themselves, utter inspirations!” This is the third year of the “Close the Care Gap” theme for World Cancer Day which aims to address inequities in cancer care that disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan in terms of cancer deaths. Together, we can close this gap by strengthening our cancer diagnostic and treatment infrastructure to help save precious lives.
