Latest news with #SawsanJafar
Gulf Today
02-08-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
FOCP's Dhs3.6m in assistance helps over 136 cancer patients
The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) has concluded its second quarterly board meeting of 2025, with discussions focused on reviewing performance for the first five months of the year, financial expenditures, upcoming awareness campaigns, as well as support initiatives. The Board also approved the annual report, reviewed preparations for the October Pink Caravan campaign, and ratified Q2 financial disbursements, which totalled Dhs3,637,159 and supported 136 patients across various nationalities and age groups. The meeting was chaired by Sawsan Jafar, Chairman of the Board and Founding Member; and attended by Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Vice President and Founding Member; Sheikha Aisha Khalid Al Qasimi, Board Secretary; and board members including Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Khawla Al Serkal, Dr. Abdalla Al Zarooni, Ibrahim Al Khayal, and Najla Al Midfa; as well as Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP. Sustainable charitable model During proceedings, Sawsan Jafar affirmed the board's unified commitment to advancing FOCP's mission under the guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Founder and Patron of FOCP. She said: 'Our strategic direction remains firmly rooted in social responsibility and generosity, ensuring a lasting and sustainable model of humanitarian action. The board is committed to a holistic management approach that balances strategic planning with continuous evaluation, enhancing FOCP's long-term impact.' Holistic patient support Emphasising the growing focus on strengthening partnerships to broaden the scope of support medically, psychologically, and socially, Dr. Abdalla Al Zarooni said: 'We are developing impactful initiatives tailored to meet the diverse needs of cancer patients and ensure a safe, empowering environment that sustains hope and emotional resilience throughout their treatment journey.' Enabling access to important positions In line with its ongoing efforts to advance regional strategies for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), FOCP announced the appointment of Majed Mohamed to the Board of Directors of the Eastern Mediterranean Noncommunicable Disease Alliance (NCDA). In this dual capacity, he serves both as an external public health specialist and representative of FOCP. Commenting on this appointment, he said: 'This role allows me to contribute to regional health strategies while representing an organization that has long been at the forefront of cancer and NCD advocacy. It is an honour to amplify FOCP's mission on a broader regional platform.' Strategic partnerships and international presence During the second quarter of 2025, FOCP signed an MoU with the Emirates Health Services (EHS) to bolster early detection, community awareness, and financial and emotional support for cancer patients, in line with national healthcare goals. On the international stage, FOCP participated in the 25th IUHPE World Conference on Health Promotion which was held in the region for the first time in May 2025, where they contributed to a panel discussion on equality and innovation in cancer care and hosted patient-centric activities designed to empower survivors and their families. Comprehensive care and advocacy As part of its integrated care approach, FOCP delivered eight patient support events this year with 12 partners, reaching 279 patients and survivors. The organisation also engaged in five local and international advocacy platforms, attracting 225 attendees and producing seven strategic reports demonstrating FOCP's influence on health and community policy. Additionally, FOCP joined the UAE Oncology Society's cancer survivor graduation ceremony at the Museum of the Future, celebrating resilient recovery journeys. Earlier this year, reflecting themes of heartfelt caring and generosity during the Holy Month of Ramadan, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) 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.
Sharjah 24
01-08-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
FOCP reviews achievements in Q2 board meeting
The meeting was chaired by Her Excellency Sawsan Jafar, Chairman of the Board and Founding Member; and attended by Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Vice President and Founding Member; Her Excellency Sheikha Aisha Khalid Al Qasimi, Board Secretary; and board members including Her Excellency Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Her Excellency Khawla Al Serkal, His Excellency Dr. Abdalla Al Zarooni, His Excellency Ibrahim Al Khayal, and Her Excellency Najla Al Midfa; as well as Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP. Sustainable charitable model During proceedings, Her Excellency Sawsan Jafar affirmed the board's unified commitment to advancing FOCP's mission under the guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Founder and Patron of FOCP. She said: 'Our strategic direction remains firmly rooted in social responsibility and generosity, ensuring a lasting and sustainable model of humanitarian action. The board is committed to a holistic management approach that balances strategic planning with continuous evaluation, enhancing FOCP's long-term impact.' Holistic patient support Emphasising the growing focus on strengthening partnerships to broaden the scope of support medically, psychologically, and socially; His Excellency Dr. Abdalla Al Zarooni said: 'We are developing impactful initiatives tailored to meet the diverse needs of cancer patients and ensure a safe, empowering environment that sustains hope and emotional resilience throughout their treatment journey.' Enabling access to important positions In line with its ongoing efforts to advance regional strategies for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), FOCP announced the appointment of Majed Mohamed to the Board of Directors of the Eastern Mediterranean Noncommunicable Disease Alliance (NCDA). In this dual capacity, he serves both as an external public health specialist and representative of FOCP. Commenting on this appointment, he said: 'This role allows me to contribute to regional health strategies while representing an organization that has long been at the forefront of cancer and NCD advocacy. It is an honor to amplify FOCP's mission on a broader regional platform.' Strategic partnerships and international presence During the second quarter of 2025, FOCP signed an MoU with the Emirates Health Services (EHS) to bolster early detection, community awareness, and financial and emotional support for cancer patients, in line with national healthcare goals. On the international stage, FOCP participated in the 25th IUHPE World Conference on Health Promotion which was held in the region for the first time in May 2025, where they contributed to a panel discussion on equality and innovation in cancer care and hosted patient-centric activities designed to empower survivors and their families. Comprehensive care and advocacy As part of its integrated care approach, FOCP delivered eight patient support events this year with 12 partners, reaching 279 patients and survivors. The organisation also engaged in five local and international advocacy platforms, attracting 225 attendees and producing seven strategic reports demonstrating FOCP's influence on health and community policy. Additionally, FOCP joined the UAE Oncology Society's cancer survivor graduation ceremony at the Museum of the Future, celebrating resilient recovery journeys.
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.
