Latest news with #FOCP
Gulf Today
22-05-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
FOCP, EHS to drive cancer detection efforts
Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) and Emirates Health Services (EHS) have signed a new partnership at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, to enhance cooperation in cancer prevention, early detection, and to provide both moral and financial support to patients across the UAE. The agreement, signed by Dr Shamsa Majid Lootah, Director of the Public Health Department at EHS, and Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, underscores FOCP's ongoing commitment to working collaboratively with national healthcare institutions to benefit the wider community. It sets out a framework for expanding early detection programmes and strengthening both financial and emotional assistance for patients. EHS has long been a strategic partner of FOCP, with both organisations having previously joined forces on cancer awareness initiatives. The renewed partnership provides a platform to broaden the scope of collaboration and align efforts in support of the UAE's national strategy to curb cancer prevalence and lessen its impact on patients and their families. Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Essam Al Zarouni, Acting Executive Director of the Medical Services Sector at EHS, affirmed that the MoU represents an advanced integration model among national sectors pursuing the country's healthcare goals. This collaboration aligns with the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 objectives and the UAE Centennial 2071. For her part, Dr Shamsa Lootah highlighted that EHS is committed to expanding strategic partnerships with key community stakeholders to support its focus on disease prevention and early detection, particularly for cancer. Through ongoing awareness programmes and initiatives, EHS aims to raise public awareness, encourage healthy lifestyles and improve early diagnosis and treatment, in line with its commitment to comprehensive healthcare. Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, said: 'The new partnership with EHS represents a significant step forward in our shared mission to raise community awareness of cancer and strengthen patient support systems. It builds on a longstanding collaboration between us.
Sharjah 24
21-05-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
FOCP, EHS partner to drive national cancer detection efforts
The agreement, signed by Dr Shamsa Majid Lootah, Director of the Public Health Department at EHS, and Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, underscores FOCP's ongoing commitment to working collaboratively with national healthcare institutions to benefit the wider community. It sets out a framework for expanding early detection programmes and strengthening both financial and emotional assistance for patients. EHS has long been a strategic partner of FOCP, with both organisations having previously joined forces on cancer awareness initiatives. The renewed partnership provides a platform to broaden the scope of collaboration and align efforts in support of the UAE's national strategy to curb cancer prevalence and lessen its impact on patients and their families. A strategic step towards shared goals Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Essam Al Zarouni, Acting Executive Director of the Medical Services Sector at EHS, affirmed that the MoU represents an advanced integration model among national sectors pursuing the country's healthcare goals. This collaboration aligns with the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 objectives and the UAE Centennial 2071. For her part, Dr. Shamsa Lootah highlighted that EHS is committed to expanding strategic partnerships with key community stakeholders to support its focus on disease prevention and early detection, particularly for cancer. Through ongoing awareness programmes and initiatives, EHS aims to raise public awareness, encourage healthy lifestyles and improve early diagnosis and treatment, in line with its commitment to comprehensive healthcare. Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, said: 'The new partnership with EHS represents a significant step forward in our shared mission to raise community awareness of cancer and strengthen patient support systems. It builds on a longstanding collaboration between us. It reflects our joint conviction that coordinated efforts between the non-profit and healthcare sectors are vital to advancing early detection, improving prevention, and alleviating the challenges faced by patients and their families throughout their treatment journey.' Patient support and assessment As part of the agreement, FOCP's Patient Affairs Department will assess each cancer case to determine eligibility for financial assistance, in line with the organisation's established policies and procedures. In parallel, it will provide moral support, acknowledging its essential role in enhancing treatment outcomes and overall patient well-being. Awareness campaigns and joint programmes FOCP and EHS will collaborate on early cancer detection initiatives through public awareness campaigns, joint research projects, and specialised workshops and conferences. These efforts are designed to expand access to cancer-related services within the community, supporting prevention, early detection, and effective treatment.
Sharjah 24
24-04-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
AED1.92mn in treatment funding marks Q1 for 110 cancer patients
In parallel with its treatment efforts, FOCP led impactful community engagement and awareness initiatives reaching 1,100 individuals. These included the 4th Middle East edition of Relay for Life and its annual Ramadan Zakat campaign. The quarter also marked the organisation's first Board of Directors meeting for the year, where Najla Al Midfa was officially appointed as the newest board member. FOCP Board holds first meeting of 2025 The first Board of Directors meeting for 2025 was chaired by Sawsan Jafar, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, and attended by Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Vice President. The board reviewed and approved the organisation's annual budget, reflected on key achievements from the previous year, and discussed progress on FOCP's 2023–2027 five-year strategic plan. The meeting also focused on strategies to expand the reach of FOCP's programmes and increase the number of beneficiaries. Particular emphasis was placed on enhancing the scope of support provided and intensifying awareness efforts around the early detection of all cancer types. AED 1.92 million in treatment support during Q1 During the first quarter, FOCP allocated AED 1.92 million to cover the treatment costs of 110 cancer patients. Of the total amount disbursed, AED 613,847 (31.9%) was allocated to medication and pharmaceutical supplies. Radiotherapy accounted for AED 536,720 (27.7%), while AED 459,770 (23.9%) supported chemotherapy treatments. FOCP also funded bone marrow transplants with AED 180,000 (9.3%), diagnostic tests and laboratory analyses with AED 116,030 (6%), and surgical procedures with AED 23,320 (1.2%). Relay for Life FOCP hosted the 4th Middle East edition of Relay for Life, the region's largest fundraising event dedicated to supporting cancer patients and survivors. The event, themed 'Worth Living,' took place at the American University of Sharjah and brought together more than 3,500 participants, including cancer survivors, healthcare professionals, families, corporate partners, and university students. Over 100 volunteers contributed their time to support the 24-hour event, overseeing logistics, registration, workshops, activities, and the walking marathon. Emotional and community support initiatives In the first quarter of 2025, FOCP delivered emotional and moral support to 342 cancer patients through 10 dedicated events, organised in partnership with seven collaborators and sponsors. The organisation's wider community engagement and awareness initiatives also included 9 events, reaching a total of 650 individuals. As part of its outreach, FOCP arranged recreational visits for patients and their families to destinations such as Al Noor Island and Sharjah Safari, while also facilitating visits to cultural and healthcare venues, including the Sharjah Heritage Museum, Tawam Hospital in Al Ain, Mleiha Wheat Farm, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, the Khorfakkan branch of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services. Additionally, with support from the Sharjah Children Centre, FOCP organised a hospital visit to Mediclinic City Hospital, where gifts were distributed to young patients, bringing moments of joy and comfort during their treatment journeys. Advocacy and regional support FOCP also demonstrated strong advocacy for cancer awareness through active participation in major regional events, including the 3rd International Conference of the Emirates Rare Diseases Society in Dubai, and the 10th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week held in Kuwait this year. To foster additional support for the awareness week, and in line with the World Cancer Day on the 4th Feb, FOCP also collaborated with the Sharjah Light Festival to illuminate key landmarks with the campaign's message. Additionally, FOCP participated in the 12th Annual Marathon organised by the Friends of Arthritis Patients Association at Al Mamzar Beach in Sharjah, and the 'Cancer Run' organised by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, further extending its outreach and advocacy efforts. Zakat and Ramadan campaigns bring support and relief Under the banner 'Togetherness Conquers', FOCP launched its annual Zakat campaign during the holy month of Ramadan, focusing on easing the financial burden of cancer treatment for patients and their families. The campaign attracted wide engagement from individuals, institutions, and corporate donors, contributing to improved health outcomes and the psychological well-being and social stability of beneficiaries. In the Holy month of Ramadan, FOCP collaborated with TIME Grand Plaza Hotel in Dubai hosting an Iftar event for 50 children with cancer, alongside survivors and their parents. Timed to coincide with International Women's Day, the event honoured the strength and resilience of mothers. A second key event was the annual Iftar held at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, which brought together 200 patients, their families, FOCP board members, and staff. An additional Iftar was organised for 100 guests at Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa. To further extend the spirit of giving, 400 Ramadan food boxes were distributed in collaboration with the UAE Food Bank and the Esaad initiative, ensuring patients and their families could share in the season's blessings. In partnership with Landmark Group, 30 children were invited to choose new Eid clothing at Oasis Mall in Sharjah, followed by a joyful visit to Fun City.
Zawya
24-04-2025
- Health
- Zawya
AED 1.92mln in treatment funding marks an inspired Q1 for FOCP and 110 cancer patients
9.3% supported bone marrow transplants, 6% covered diagnostic tests and lab analyses, and 1.2% went towards surgical procedures Provided emotional support to 342 patients through 10 events held in partnership with seven sponsors Organised nine community and awareness events with the participation of 650 individuals, in collaboration with 11 partners Held 1st Board of Directors meeting; welcomed HE Najla Al Midfa as a new member Sharjah: Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) continued to advance its mission of delivering medical and emotional support to cancer patients and their families during the first quarter of 2025. The Sharjah-based organisation allocated AED 1.92 million to fund treatment for 110 patients across the UAE, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to alleviating the burden of cancer care. In parallel with its treatment efforts, FOCP led impactful community engagement and awareness initiatives reaching 1,100 individuals. These included the 4th Middle East edition of Relay for Life and its annual Ramadan Zakat campaign. The quarter also marked the organisation's first Board of Directors meeting for the year, where HE Najla Al Midfa was officially appointed as the newest board member. FOCP Board holds first meeting of 2025 The first Board of Directors meeting for 2025 was chaired by HE Sawsan Jafar, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and attended by HE Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Vice President. The board reviewed and approved the organisation's annual budget, reflected on key achievements from the previous year, and discussed progress on FOCP's 2023–2027 five-year strategic plan. The meeting also focused on strategies to expand the reach of FOCP's programmes and increase the number of beneficiaries. Particular emphasis was placed on enhancing the scope of support provided and intensifying awareness efforts around the early detection of all cancer types. AED 1.92 million in treatment support during Q1 During the first quarter, FOCP allocated AED 1.92 million to cover the treatment costs of 110 cancer patients. Of the total amount disbursed, AED 613,847 (31.9%) was allocated to medication and pharmaceutical supplies. Radiotherapy accounted for AED 536,720 (27.7%), while AED 459,770 (23.9%) supported chemotherapy treatments. FOCP also funded bone marrow transplants with AED 180,000 (9.3%), diagnostic tests and laboratory analyses with AED 116,030 (6%), and surgical procedures with AED 23,320 (1.2%). Relay for Life FOCP hosted the 4th Middle East edition of Relay for Life, the region's largest fundraising event dedicated to supporting cancer patients and survivors. The event, themed 'Worth Living,' took place at the American University of Sharjah and brought together more than 3,500 participants, including cancer survivors, healthcare professionals, families, corporate partners, and university students. Over 100 volunteers contributed their time to support the 24-hour event, overseeing logistics, registration, workshops, activities, and the walking marathon. Emotional and community support initiatives In the first quarter of 2025, FOCP delivered emotional and moral support to 342 cancer patients through 10 dedicated events, organised in partnership with seven collaborators and sponsors. The organisation's wider community engagement and awareness initiatives also included 9 events, reaching a total of 650 individuals. As part of its outreach, FOCP arranged recreational visits for patients and their families to destinations such as Al Noor Island and Sharjah Safari, while also facilitating visits to cultural and healthcare venues, including the Sharjah Heritage Museum, Tawam Hospital in Al Ain, Mleiha Wheat Farm, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, the Khorfakkan branch of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services. Additionally, with support from the Sharjah Children Centre, FOCP organised a hospital visit to Mediclinic City Hospital, where gifts were distributed to young patients, bringing moments of joy and comfort during their treatment journeys. Advocacy and regional support FOCP also demonstrated strong advocacy for cancer awareness through active participation in major regional events, including the 3rd International Conference of the Emirates Rare Diseases Society in Dubai, and the 10th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week held in Kuwait this year. To foster additional support for the awareness week, and in line with the World Cancer Day on the 4th Feb, FOCP also collaborated with the Sharjah Light Festival to illuminate key landmarks with the campaign's message. Additionally, FOCP participated in the 12th Annual Marathon organised by the Friends of Arthritis Patients Association at Al Mamzar Beach in Sharjah, and the 'Cancer Run' organised by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, further extending its outreach and advocacy efforts. Zakat and Ramadan campaigns bring support and relief Under the banner 'Togetherness Conquers', FOCP launched its annual Zakat campaign during the holy month of Ramadan, focusing on easing the financial burden of cancer treatment for patients and their families. The campaign attracted wide engagement from individuals, institutions, and corporate donors, contributing to improved health outcomes and the psychological well-being and social stability of beneficiaries. In the Holy month of Ramadan, FOCP collaborated with TIME Grand Plaza Hotel in Dubai hosting an Iftar event for 50 children with cancer, alongside survivors and their parents. Timed to coincide with International Women's Day, the event honoured the strength and resilience of mothers. A second key event was the annual Iftar held at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, which brought together 200 patients, their families, FOCP board members, and staff. An additional Iftar was organised for 100 guests at Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa. To further extend the spirit of giving, 400 Ramadan food boxes were distributed in collaboration with the UAE Food Bank and the Esaad initiative, ensuring patients and their families could share in the season's blessings. In partnership with Landmark Group, 30 children were invited to choose new Eid clothing at Oasis Mall in Sharjah, followed by a joyful visit to Fun City.
Sharjah 24
26-03-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
FOCP runs successful zakat campaign throughout Ramadan
This year's campaign is launched under the motto 'Together, we thrive,' highlighting the importance of collective efforts in the fight against cancer, which often isolates patients from their loved ones and communities. By uniting efforts, the campaign seeks to make a meaningful difference, empowering patients with the strength, resilience, and determination to overcome their illness. Stories of hope in the month of giving One of the recipients is a 37-year-old mother of five who is undergoing treatment at Tawam Hospital for rectal cancer. Given her household's AED 8,500 monthly income, the AED 71,212 cost of her radiotherapy sessions is a major hardship. She conveyed her appreciation, saying that the campaign fosters a sense of community care by supporting patients and their entire families. In a similar vein, a 48-year-old father at Zulekha Hospital in Sharjah is having financial difficulties due to medical bills that have topped AED 93,122 while receiving treatment for multiple myeloma. He revealed that the campaign has given him comfort in knowing he is not fighting this battle alone, despite living on AED 4,375 per month. At Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi, a three-year-old who is not aware of his battle with neuroblastoma needs AED 255,024 worth of dinutuximab treatment. His parents, who together make AED 6,870 a year, thanked the campaign, saying it has given them courage and hope through this difficult time. Together in the battle against cancer FOCP Director Aisha Al Mulla underlined that the campaign's influence goes beyond financial assistance, acting as a hopeful message from kind contributors to cancer patients going through difficult times. She said: "The giving spirit is at its peak during Ramadan, uniting people, organisations, and corporations to give sufferers hope again." This campaign embodies our goal of transforming kindness into practical assistance and truly helping those in need. The Zakat Campaign builds on the work done last year, when 98 cancer patients received AED 5.7 million in aid from FOCP for a range of treatments, including drugs, surgeries, bone marrow transplants, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. FOCP has implemented several channels to make donations easier. The official website ( offers e-vouchers for donations, and there are also special Zakat pages ( and ( Donations can also be sent internationally using IBAN AE440410000011364854002 or by bank transfer to the Sharjah Islamic Bank account (0011-364854-002). Through the use of Etisalat, FOCP also provides a mobile donation option. Supporters can message "Zakat" to 6447 for AED 20, 4426 for AED 50, 4467 for AED 200, and 2308 for AED 500. Participation from both inside and outside the UAE is made possible by these easily accessible donation options. Comprehensive support beyond financial aid To promote a sense of community and alleviate the isolation brought on by illness, FOCP provides support beyond fundraising through programmes like community festivals, Eid attire for young cancer patients, and Ramadan food packages. FOCP has hosted several iftar gatherings for patients, survivors, and their families since the beginning of Ramadan. Fifty youngsters and their families gathered for an iftar at the TIME Grand Plaza Hotel on March 7. With assistance from Lubna Olayan, Patchi, Taif Al Emarat, and Claro Speciality Coffee, 200 patients attended the annual community iftar held at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre on 10 March. One hundred people attended another iftar event at the Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa. To strengthen the sense of community solidarity, FOCP worked with the UAE Food Bank and Esaad Centre to distribute 400 Ramadan food boxes on March 16. We also planned a special Eid shopping day at Oasis Mall Sharjah for thirty young cancer patients. They chose festive attire from Max Fashion and then played at Fun City. To support children with cancer, FOCP also organised hospital visits on March 24. Young patients at Mediclinic City Hospital received gifts in partnership with Sharjah Children. Through these programmes, FOCP upholds the principles of kindness and generosity, ensuring that no cancer sufferer has to confront their ordeal alone.
