Dimapur, June 24 (MExN): In a noble initiative to reach out to those undergoing cancer treatment, palliative patients, and those who have survived the disease, a cancer support group was launched at Referral Hospital (CIHSR), 4th Mile, Dimapur this morning.
The group, a first of its kind in Dimapur district, was founded by Ahimsa Zhimo in association with Referral Hospital. Its objective is to offer support, understanding and sympathy to people who have cancer, or have beaten it, and to their families and their friends.
Speaking on the occasion, Ahimsa Zhimo said that doctors give the best treatment but one (patient) needs to be positive of the whole approach and in such situation, the support group could play a positive role to make the patients who need lots of motivation and encouragement, realise they can win and get back to life after cancer. The group will also focus on wide range of issues surrounding cancer, spirituality, grief, loss and death, she added.
Dr. Sedevi Angami, Director, CIHSR said Nagas are cohesive and supportive community and formation of such group is a great initiative that will help many those who are affected with emotional comfort along with practical information to the challenges that are presented by the diagnosis of cancer.
Also speaking on the occasion, Banuo Z Jamir, former Chief Secretary of Nagaland said people were gripped with fear with the word cancer largely because of delayed treatment due to lack of facilities. She however pointed out that facilities and its treatment have immensely improved resulting in increased numbers of winners over cancer. Spiritual determination and faith is very important along with proper treatment to beat cancer, she stated, adding cancer is preventable and curable if detected at an early stage.
Banuo was of the view that government should give much importance to help those suffering from cancer to avail required medical treatment. She observed that the government is not giving importance to it like other contagious diseases. She hoped that the support group would sensitise the government on the issue.
Inaholi Sumi, representing the nurses of the oncology department of Referral Hospital, spoke about the positive impact seen in the patients after being visited and motivated by cancer survivors.
Atsung Imchen, chaplain of Referral Hospital Chapel offered the dedication prayer for the support group, which comprises of patients undergoing treatment, survivors, care givers (those related to patients), and hospitals faculties.
