Mangaluru : Canara Organization for Development and Peace Mangaluru and Caritas India, in collaboration with Dr. BR and CR Shetty Foundation, St. Aloysius College, Indian Cancer Society, and Father Muller Medical College Hospital jointly observed World Cancer Day on 4th February 2020 at Mother Theresa Peace Park, St. Aloysius College, Mangaluru.

The theme of the program was “I AM and I WILL”. The theme seeks to counter the negative attitude and fatalistic belief that nothing can be done about cancer, and instead promotes how our personal actions can be powerful and impactful.

The program began by invoking God’s blessing through a prayer song lead by the MSW students of St. Aloysius College.

Fr. Oswald Monteiro, Director of CODP welcomed the dignitaries and the participants. The dignitaries were handed over with Aloe Vera saplings as memento. He also addressed the gathering by giving information about Sparsha-Campaign against Cancer.

Dr. Shwetha Rasquinha, HOD of MSW Department St. Aloysius College gave a meaningful message on the importance of early detection and how social workers could contribute to the society by organizing awareness.

Ms. Jesel Dsouza and Ms. Harina J Rao Cancer survivors were present for the program and shared their testimony. The inspiring words from cancer survivors described the insights they have learned and challenges they have faced as they’ve lived through cancer and encouraged the participants not to lose hope in life as technologies and medical facilities have improved. One has to fight cancer through optimism.

Dr. Sheeba from Radiotherapy Department of Fr. Muller Hospital being the resource person explained the types, causes and effects of Cancer. She stated that consumption of alcohol and tobacco will have lot of impact on health and increases the risk for cancer. She concluded her talk by giving an important message i.e., through healthy life style we can beat Cancer. She also stressed upon the various government schemes available for people who are below poverty line to treat cancer.

Dr. Loveena Lobo gave a motivational message on World Cancer Day and appreciated the initiative taken by CODP to conduct programs on cancer.

Street play was performed by students of Department of Community Medicine, Fr. Mullers Medical College Hospital. The team demonstrated the causes and effects of cancer and showed how this disease can be treated if detected at an early stage. The play conveyed a very meaningful message to the spectators and concluded by taking an Oath.

Ms Nafisa and Mr Vivian, MSW students of St Aloysius College compeered the program. Ms. Shilpa Dsouza, Coordinator of Sparsha proposed the vote of thanks.