Associations' / Institutions' News

Media Release

Mangaluru, Feb 5 : Canara Organization for Development and Peace® Mangaluru and Caritas India, in collaboration with JCI Mangaluru Disha and KMC Hospital Mangaluru jointly observed World Cancer Day on 4th February 2021 at CODP, Mother Theresa Hall.

The campaign theme ‘I Am and I Will’, 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. CODP through its SPARSHA program spreads awareness on cancer through talks, screening programmes, street plays, hair donation drives, awareness on healthy lifestyle, motivates poor to enroll for Ayushman Bharat etc so that the mortality rate of cancer is reduced through early detection, screening, and diagnosis.

The program began by invoking God’s blessing through a prayer song led by the staff of CODP.

Fr. Oswald Monteiro, Director of CODP welcomed the dignitaries and the participants. He addressed the gathering by giving information about Sparsha-Campaign against Cancer and significance of the event. He also cleared the false notion about hair donation.

Dr. Harish, Oncology department of KMC hospital explained in detail the symptoms of cancer, the ways to identify and how to prevent it. He urged the people to follow a healthy lifestyle and consume healthy food.

Fr Francis Xavier Gomes shared his testimony about how he fought cancer bravely.

Ms Sowjanya Hegde JCI explained about JCI activities and focuses on community development.

40 hair donors from different age groups donated their hair on the occasion of World Cancer Day, which was appreciated by all. Special highlight of the event was Mr Clide came forward to donate his hair for a great cause. All hair donors were very glad to have got the opportunity to donate their hair. As a token of gratitude, they were honored with a certificate and memento.

This drive aimed to instill hope among the cancer patients from poor families who have lost their hair during treatment and that they can gain confidence. The donated hair would be sent to Hairbank at Thrissur to provide wigs for cancer patients free of cost.

Mercy Beauty Salon, Suma Beauty Parlour, Monalisa Beauty Parlour, Prathibha Beauty Salon and Prits Beauty Salon rendered their services as volunteers for the programme.

CODP staff Ms Lenet Gonsalves and Ms Mamatha compered the program. Fr. Vincent D Souza, Designate Director of CODP proposed the vote of thanks.

Ms. Shilpa D Souza, Sparsha Coordinator worked hard to make the program successful.