Latest news with #FriendsofCancerPatients
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.
Gulf Today
02-03-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
Help needy cancer patients with Zakat, urges FOCP
The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), a UAE-based non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families, is calling on the community to make a meaningful difference during Ramadan through its annual Zakat initiative. Under the powerful theme "Togetherness Conquers," the 2025 campaign invites individuals and institutions to extend a lifeline to financially burdened cancer patients. By embracing compassion and generosity, we can bring hope to those in need and take a united stand against cancer. The campaign aims to encourage all members of society to come together to combat cancer, drawing on a religious ruling issued by the Permanent Fatwa Committee in Sharjah, which permits the use of Zakat funds to support cancer patients in financial need who are unable to afford treatment. How to donate: FOCP urges everyone to participate in the campaign and contribute to helping cancer patients and their families during Ramadan. To support FOCP's noble cause, individuals can donate via and leverage the calculator to determine the Zakat amount. Online Dhs10, 50,100, 500, and 1,000 donation coupons are available at Bank Transfers: Donations can also be made via bank transfer to FOCP's Sharjah Islamic Bank account, no. 0011-364854-002, IBAN AE440410000011364854002. SMS Donations: People can also donate by sending an SMS with the word 'Zakat' to the following designated Etisalat numbers to contribute: 6447 to donate Dhs20; 4426 to donate Dhs50, 4467 to donate Dhs200; or 2308 to donate Dhs500. Togetherness Conquers Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, 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. She added: "Our annual campaign aligns with our ongoing mission to support patients and their families. In 2024, we allocated over Dhs5.7 million to support the treatment of 98 cancer patients and provide financial and emotional assistance to them and their families.'' Zakat 2024 achievements The association allocated donations from last year's Zakat campaign to support various medical needs. Specifically, 37.5% was directed towards medications and pharmaceutical supplies for 42 patients, while 30.1% covered chemotherapy costs for 25 patients. Additionally, 9.6% was allocated for bone marrow transplants for four patients, and 7.5% supported radiotherapy for nine patients. Laboratory tests for 11 patients received 6.1% of the funds, and 4.9% was used for surgeries for six patients. The remaining 4.8% was designated for general expenses for 9 patients, including doctor visits, prescription glasses, and prosthetics. As part of their annual tradition, FOCP organised the distribution of Meer Ramadan (food boxes) for cancer patients and survivors in collaboration with Esaad Center and UAE Food Bank, which provided 400 food boxes throughout the Wasit Suburb Council, facilitated by the invaluable support of the Sharjah Volunteer Center. The association also distributed Eid clothing to 38 children and adolescents aged 3 to 18 and organised a group Iftar for 200 patients, survivors, and their families at the Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa. The association launched a social media campaign last year to reach all segments of the public in the UAE and highlight the journeys of cancer patients bravely battling the disease by sharing real-life stories of resilience, courage, and hope. The campaign achieved 6.2 million impressions, 2.6 million engagements, and 2.3 million reach, with the campaign videos garnering 2.1 million views.
Zawya
02-03-2025
- Health
- Zawya
FOCP calls on UAE community to support cancer patients' treatment with their Zakat
Aisha Al Mulla: Uniting community efforts gives patients the strength and determination to defeat cancer. Sharjah: The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), a UAE-based non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families, is calling on the community to make a meaningful difference during Ramadan through its annual Zakat initiative. Under the powerful theme "Togetherness Conquers," the 2025 campaign invites individuals and institutions to extend a lifeline to financially burdened cancer patients. By embracing compassion and generosity, we can bring hope to those in need and take a united stand against cancer. The campaign aims to encourage all members of society to come together to combat cancer, drawing on a religious ruling issued by the Permanent Fatwa Committee in Sharjah, which permits the use of Zakat funds to support cancer patients in financial need who are unable to afford treatment. How to donate: FOCP urges everyone to participate in the campaign and contribute to helping cancer patients and their families during Ramadan. To support FOCP's noble cause, individuals can donate via and leverage the calculator to determine the Zakat amount. Online AED 10, 50,100, 500, and 1,000 donation coupons are available at Bank Transfers: Donations can also be made via bank transfer to FOCP's Sharjah Islamic Bank account, no. 0011-364854-002, IBAN AE440410000011364854002. SMS Donations: People can also donate by sending an SMS with the word 'Zakat' to the following designated Etisalat numbers to contribute: 6447 to donate Dh20; 4426 to donate Dh50, 4467 to donate AED200; or 2308 to donate Dh500. Togetherness Conquers Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, 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. She added: "Our annual campaign aligns with our ongoing mission to support patients and their families. In 2024, we allocated over AED 5.7 million to support the treatment of 98 cancer patients and provide financial and emotional assistance to them and their families.'' Zakat 2024 achievements The association allocated donations from last year's Zakat Campaign to support various medical needs. Specifically, 37.5% was directed towards medications and pharmaceutical supplies for 42 patients, while 30.1% covered chemotherapy costs for 25 patients. Additionally, 9.6% was allocated for bone marrow transplants for four patients, and 7.5% supported radiotherapy for nine patients. Laboratory tests for 11 patients received 6.1% of the funds, and 4.9% was used for surgeries for six patients. The remaining 4.8% was designated for general expenses for 9 patients, including doctor visits, prescription glasses, and prosthetics. As part of their annual tradition, FOCP organised the distribution of Meer Ramadan (food boxes) for cancer patients and survivors in collaboration with Esaad Center and UAE Food Bank, which provided 400 food boxes throughout the Wasit Suburb Council, facilitated by the invaluable support of the Sharjah Volunteer Center. The association also distributed Eid clothing to 38 children and adolescents aged 3 to 18 and organised a group Iftar for 200 patients, survivors, and their families at the Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa. The association launched a social media campaign last year to reach all segments of the public in the UAE and highlight the journeys of cancer patients bravely battling the disease by sharing real-life stories of resilience, courage, and hope. The campaign achieved 6.2 million impressions, 2.6 million engagements, and 2.3 million reach, with the campaign videos garnering 2.1 million views.
Gulf Today
27-01-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
3,500 supporters walk for hope, unity at Relay for Life 2025 in Sharjah
Sharjah came together with unwavering hope and determination as Relay for Life 2025 concluded on Sunday at the American University of Sharjah. Organised by Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) under the theme Worth Living, this 4th Middle East edition of the 24-hour walkathon saw over 3,500 participants - including survivors, caregivers, and community supporters - walk in solidarity to raise cancer awareness and life-saving funds. The event was a demonstration of resilience and unity, blending reflective moments with vibrant community engagement. From themed laps to educational workshops, the walkathon showcased a shared commitment to honouring survivors, supporting patients, and remembering loved ones lost. Reflecting on the event's impact, Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, said, "Relay for Life 2025 has been a profound reminder of the strength that comes from unity and compassion. Over the past 24 hours, we have witnessed over 3,500 survivors, supporters and families unite to walk with purpose and hope. This event is not just about raising vital funds; It is about inspiring resilience, spreading awareness, and sending a powerful message that no one faces cancer alone. Together, we are making a difference, one step at a time.' The 24-hour walkathon offered participants a dynamic programme, including workshops on wellness, cancer prevention, and family-friendly activities. Highlights included yoga and Zumba sessions, an awareness lecture on cervical cancer screening, and themed laps such as the Noise Maker Lap, Zumba Lap, and Greatest Hit Lap. Creativity and community spirit were showcased through student performances and a talent show by school and university students. The event concluded with the Farewell Lap, a heartfelt farewell where participants celebrated their collective impact.
