Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) launched a survivor booklet under the name “Story of Hope” on the occasion of World Cancer Day organised at Katara recently.
The booklet aims to highlight the role of cancer survivors in raising awareness about cancer and let people know it is a treatable disease if discovered in the early stages.
The ceremony included a variety of events targeting all groups, including school students. QCS also announced Nadine Bitar and Shatha Adhami as ambassadors during the event.
Sponsors and supporters, including Ooredoo, Nasser Bin Khaled Group, Katara Hospitality, Retaj Group, Katara, Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar (WCM-Q) and Hyatt Plaza, were honoured.
QCS chairman Dr Khaled bin Jabor al-Thani said fear of cancer has destroyed the hopes of many, making a cure seem a distant dream. “It is just a transitional stage that the patient can pass through with faith, patience and firm determination.With treatment and psychological support, cancer will be just a memory and a motivation to love life.
“This booklet comes with stories full of honesty and courage to bring motivation in hard times. These stories will remain memorable. While varied with different characters, all the stories have hope as a common factor,” he added. The stories describe hard times that could change the course of life for many but highlights the fact that human beings cannot be defeated.
Jeremie Arash, associate professor of genetic medicine at WCM-Q, said: “This booklet continues the educational mission of Qatar Cancer Society and Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar by presenting newly diagnosed patients with stories from patients who have survived the emotional, spiritual and physical challenges of cancer.”