- Healthcare professionals witness the resilience and strength of the human soul through these messages
- Family members and friends play a special role in supporting loved ones before surgery or during treatment or after recuperation, providing a lifeline, and nourishing their belief in their strength
- Cancer warriors share their wishes with others illuminate the path toward healing and make a difference one heartfelt wish at a time
GOWRI MANICKAVASAGAM
AHMEDABAD, FEB 3
World Cancer Day is observed on 4th February every year and serves as a global platform to raise awareness about cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.
To mark this important day, HCG Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad has introduced an inspiring awareness campaign called “Power of Good Wishes”. This initiative encourages individuals to share stories of hope and survival while recognizing the difficulties experienced by those impacted by cancer. Through this activity, the Hospital aims to uplift and empower cancer patients by inviting them to write down their wishes and dreams in a special bottle during their treatment journey.
A simple wish, a heartfelt message, or a kind gesture has the incredible ability to uplift, encourage, and ignite a flame of hope in the hearts of those facing medical procedures. They transform apprehension into courage, anxiety into serenity, and uncertainty into unwavering determination. Healthcare professionals witness the resilience and strength of the human soul through these messages. Family members and friends play a special role in supporting loved ones before surgery or during treatment or after recuperation, providing a lifeline, and nourishing their belief in their strength. Together, we can illuminate the path toward healing and make a difference one heartfelt wish at a time.
Talking about the initiative, Dr Bharat Gadhavi, Regional Director, HCG Hospitals, Gujarat & Rajasthan said “By fostering a deep connection between hope, resilience, and personal fulfilment through this initiative, HCG Cancer Center, Ahmedabad not only raises awareness about cancer treatment but also supports each patient’s emotional well-being. The Hospital is committed to making every patient’s journey meaningful by acknowledging the power of good wishes in overcoming adversities. We at HCG, will want to help with all their wishes that are possible to fulfil during the year and the same time next year, we will want to regroup and see how many wishes came true.”
Commenting on this, Gautam CB, Chief Operating Officer, HCG Hospitals, Gujarat said, “As part of the initiative, each patient who got treated in the last one year, receives a unique box containing an empty bottle and 12small chits. Every month, either the Patient or their family member or a friend opens a chit, writes down a wish, and place it in the bottle. Over the course of a year, these collected wishes become a powerful source of inspiration for the patients. After successfully completing one year, during the next World Cancer Day, patients can revisit their aspirations and witness the transformative journey they have undertaken.”
Sharing his own experience, Gautam said, “In 2012, my wife, Bhasini, was afflicted with cancer. She not only survived but kindled a ray of hope with her indomitable spirit. Being an ace swimmer, she wanted me to learn swimming as her wish. I learnt it within four months to fulfil her wish and ignited a flame of hope in her heart. Thus near and dear ones play a vital role in overcoming the anxiety and spread the power of good wishes and positivity.”.
Dr Rajendra Toprani, Cancer Surgeon and Director, HCG Hospitals, Gujarat said, “With ‘Power of Good Wishes’, the patients get recover fast and spread the message of positivity. Our colleagues at the hospital will observe this along with medical procedures and illuminate the lives of cancer survivors.”
This year World Cancer Day 2024 focuses on the universal theme of Close the Care Gap, advocating for equal access to cancer care for all. This important initiative highlights the disparities in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support services around the world. By addressing these gaps in care, we can work towards ensuring that everyone, regardless of their location or economic status, has access to life-saving cancer screenings, treatments, and support.
“All the Doctors at the HCG Cancer Centre are excited about the Power of Good Wishes initiative on World Cancer Day 2024. They believe that this program reflects the comprehensive approach taken at the center. According to the clinicians, cancer treatment should not only focus on medical interventions but also on supporting patients’ emotional and psychological well-being. The ‘Power of Good Wishes’ initiative offers patients a special opportunity to express their hopes and dreams, which helps them maintain a positive attitude during their difficult journey,” added Dr Gadhavi.
After receiving the first wish gift box, Harsh Patel, the youngest cancer warrior, said: “I have two wishes – to learn ukulele with four strings and car driving.’
Rajesh Sharma (name Changed), a cancer patient receiving treatment at HCG Cancer Centre, also appreciates the initiative. He feels that it’s not just about physical healing but also about finding strength through the support of others and his own aspirations. Writing down his wishes each month gives him a sense of planting seeds of hope, allowing him to stay connected to his dreams and aspirations. He believes that this makes the path to recovery more meaningful. Rajesh expresses gratitude to HCG Cancer Centre for acknowledging the significance of emotional well-being in the battle against cancer.
Dr Kinaj Jani, Dr Daxesh Patel, Dr Mansi Shah, Dr Vishwa, Dr Soma were also present.
