FOCP hosts several events for cancer patients and families

Reflecting themes of heartfelt caring and generosity during the Holy Month of Ramadan, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) has demonstrated the power of unity and community support by organising a series of compassionate events across the UAE.

Partnering with philanthropic individuals, compassionate companies, and government entities, FOCP’s efforts aim to uplift cancer patients, survivors, and their families, embodying the sentiment of Ramadan through acts of kindness and solidarity.

On March 7, FOCP commenced its Ramadan event series with a supportive Iftar gathering hosted in collaboration with TIME Grand Plaza Hotel (Dubai) for 50 children battling cancer, their parents, and also for survivors. This touching tribute timed with International Women’s Day, also celebrated and honoured the resilience of mothers, whose strength often forms the foundational support of their children’s brave journeys.

Now a tradition within FOCP’s yearly efforts, the annual Iftar at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre (JRCC) brought together more than 200 patients, families, and FOCP Board and team members, and was generously sponsored by philanthropist and renowned business woman Lubna Allana. The evening, held on March 10, was also supported with generous gifts of chocolate boxes from “Patchi,” perfume gift bags from “Taif Al Emarat,” and free coffee for attendees during the evening from Claro Specialty Coffee.

What has also become a yearly highlight, FOCP organised an intimate Iftar gathering for 100 people, graciously hosted by Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa.

Offering a serene seaside setting for families to break their fast, this event, took place on Tuesday March 18, and gave attendees the opportunity to find solace and connect with the FOCP community.

On March 16, FOCP, with the support of UAE Food Bank and Dubai Police’s Esaad initiative, distributed 400 Al Meer Al Ramadany Food Boxes to families, ensuring they could share in the blessings of the season.

In partnership with Landmark Group, and held at Oasis Mall in Sharjah, FOCP invited 30 child cancer patients accompanied by volunteers to experience the joy of selecting their very own Eid outfits from Max Fashion. The activity, which took place on March 14, was followed by a memorable playtime experience at the mall’s “Fun City,” ensuring the day was filled with fun and joy.

Collaborating with Sharjah Children Center, FOCP is also organising a special visit to paediatric cancer patients at the Mediclinic City Hospital on March 24, spreading cheer through gifts, companionship, and moments of pure joy amidst the children’s treatment journeys.

Reflecting on these initiatives, Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, shared, “Ramadan is a time to embrace empathy, unity, and the profound strength of community, and through these events, FOCP has continued our mission to ignite hope, reminding every patient and family that they are never alone. We also give our deepest gratitude to our partners, whose generosity turns compassion into action, lighting the path towards healing and joy.”

Recently, FOCP launched its annual Zakat campaign to collect funds and donations aimed at providing financial and emotional support to cancer patients.

Under the theme “Togetherness Conquers,” the campaign seeks to alleviate the financial burden of various cancer treatment programmes for patients and their families, making a real impact on their health, mental, and social well-being.

The initiative calls on all society members to unite in the fight against cancer, supported by a religious ruling from the Permanent Fatwa Committee in Sharjah, which permits the use of Zakat funds to aid cancer patients in financial need who cannot afford treatment.

Al Mulla underscored the importance of community solidarity and compassion towards cancer patients.

She highlighted that the Zakat campaign is one of the association’s key annual initiatives to alleviate pain and bring hope to cancer patients.

Al Mulla stressed that every donation, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in patients’ lives, easing their suffering and giving them hope for recovery.

She emphasised that collective community efforts provide the strength and determination to overcome cancer.