Cancer patients and survivors celebrate World Cancer Day
PARKTOWN - World Cancer Day in remembrance of all those that suffered.
The Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital hosted an event in honour of World Cancer Day on 4 February. The event was attended by patients, staff members, CanSurvive Cancer support group and Can Assist support team.
The CanSurvive Cancer support group offers support to cancer patients, family, friends and caregivers. Spokesperson Susan Elder said the support group meets every second Saturday in a month and is also open to the public.
“The Netcare Parktown Hospital offers us a venue to host our meetings and also provides us with refreshments. Today we are here to offer our support to cancer patients and hand out goodie bags provided by Future Life. The goodie bags have toiletries, magazine, and snacks,” said Elder.
She added that every Tuesday she and her team visit the Oncology Clinic at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital to hand out sandwiches with refreshments.
Radiotherapist at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital Bongiwe Nkosi said that World Cancer Day gives them an opportunity to honour cancer patients and to pay tribute to the ones who did make it in the fight against cancer.
“We usually raise awareness by talking to patients and people about the importance of early detection, encourage treatment and information about the different types of cancers that exist. Patients and families are always welcome to come share their stories with other patients,” said Nkosi.
Cancer patient Relebogile Mokone did a pap smear last year April when the doctor informed her that she has cervical cancer.
” I was surprised when the doctor told me I have cervical cancer, especially, because I did not experience any symptoms. I’m glad that they detected it early so I could begin treatment. I started undergoing radiation and chemotherapy last month and so far I’m coping with the side effects,” Mkone said.
She encourages people to be aware of the state of their health, especially, if they do not feel well. She added that she appreciates the staff’s support and guidance throughout her journey to recovery.
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