In order to keep this discussion going, Ladiesfund Breast Cancer Awareness event #LFBreastCancerAwareness was recently observed in Karachi...
breast cancer awareness
2020 has been a powerful reminder that we are all in this together, and our choices and actions have the power to protect the most vulnerable among us in a big way. The same holds true when it comes to breast cancer.
In order to keep this discussion going, Ladiesfund Breast Cancer Awareness event #LFBreastCancerAwareness was recently observed in Karachi. Begum Governor Sindh Reema Imran attended the proceedings happened at The Burraq Center by Ladiesfund as a chief guest. She was joined by the task force of the First Lady Samina Alvi’s Breast Cancer Awareness Task Force, who collaborated with Ladiesfund, along with Dawood Global Foundation, Canada Pakistan Business Council, and Pink Ribbon. This event’s purpose was to not only raise awareness about Breast Cancer, but to emphasise the importance of preventive measures and receiving check-ups to stay healthy and safe. The evening featured a keynote by Asma Nabeel, member of the Ladiesfund community and who is currently struggling with breast cancer. She spoke about the power of pain. Former Governor Sindh, Kamal Azfar, spoke about the importance of men to support women in getting early detection and through any health journey. Pink Ribbon Karachi chapter Chair Mehnaz Karamat and Board Member Simeen Tapal spoke on their vision for building the first breast cancer hospital in Pakistan and the importance of early detection. Other speakers included Samir Dossal, President of the Canada Pakistan Business Council, and Nilufer Mama, Director Canada Pakistan Business Council, as well as Omolara Oyekunle, representing Ladiesfund Nigeria and sharing details of the on-ground breast cancer situation in that country.
Every day, 110 women die of breast cancer in Pakistan and Ladiesfund believes that ’early detection is the best prevention’. Dr Salina Iqbal at the event made a presentation giving detailed advice and information on how to be tested and the medical side of this deadly disease that affects 1 out of every 9 Pakistani women. She also encouraged women to recognise and detect breast cancer symptoms. Tara Uzra Dawood, President Ladiesfund, welcomed all guests and encouraged the community to work together to help more and more Pakistani women to be safe from both breast cancer, as well as Covid-19.
With each other’s support, we can show every woman that her life is important. By working together, we can inspire hope and become a force for good ‘to get her’ access to the care she needs. So, let’s join hands in the celebration of strength and a message of support to those currently on their own breast cancer journey…
–– Mubashir Ahmed
