Assam Cancer Care Foundation observes World Rose Day 2019: Brings happiness into the lives of cancer patients

Assam Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF) observed the World Rose Day at the State Cancer Institute (SCI) in memory of 12-year-old Melinda Rose of Canada, who was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer (Askin tumor). Her doctors did not give her more than a few weeks to live, but she lived for six months and made her life meaningful by touching other patients, their families and care givers through her letters, poems and emails. This day marks the sharing of her heartwarming endeavour across the world, for bringing unquenchable spirit into the lives of the people who are fighting with cancer. It's also a day to spread awareness about the disease.

Distinguished speakers such as Medical Advisor of ACCF, Nirmal Kumar Hazarika; Superintendent of SCI, K Bhuyan; Dr Dipankar Dauka; patient advisory group member; Kunjalata Medhi, a cancer survivor, and others helped raised the spirit of patients in their fight against cancer

Roses being distributed to patients and caregivers by Assam Cancer Care Foundation representatives as part of World Rose Day 2019 celebrations

Meditation and healing touch activities were part of the Assam Cancer Care Foundation World Rose Day 2019 celebrations

Games and fun activities improved bonding among patients, caregivers and staff during the Assam Cancer Care Foundation World Rose Day 2019 celebrations

ACCF, in collaboration with SCI, Guwahati, celebrated the day by sharing the message of courage and spirit of little Melinda by distinguished speakers like Medical Advisor of ACCF, Nirmal Kumar Hazarika; Superintendent of SCI, K Bhuyan; Dr Dipankar Dauka; patient advisory group member; Kunjalata Medhi, a cancer survivor, and others. They also spoke about various aspects of cancer that includes prevention, early detection and palliative care that includes the physical, emotional and social burdens faced by cancer patients and survivors.

Special events were organised to give strength to those suffering from cancer.  Rose, a symbol of love, tenderness and concern, were offered to the cancer patients to give them strength to fight against cancer.

The following events were organised to raise their spirit to fight against cancer with day-long celebrations:

• Talks by doctors, survivors and patients
• Distribution of roses and juice
• Artscape programme (meditation / healing touch / some other activities with props and ribbons)

It was amazing to observe all the patients participate in all the activities with their unquenchable spirit, which made the event a success.