GUWAHATI, Aug 25 � Pursuing its pioneering role in supporting cancer patients, the Deepsikha Cancer Care Foundation is going to establish a hospice at Sontala near Mirza to serve terminally ill cancer patients. The ambitious project, to be funded by a few corporates and the Chief Minister�s untied funds, will house both male and female patients by offering 15 rooms and a dormitory.
The facility will fulfil a long- felt need for patients as well as their guardians, and will set a precedent for more such institutions to emerge in a region that has a high incidence of cancer cases.
Another initiative would be a half marathon in Guwahati scheduled for November 20. It is expected to draw participation in large numbers and will highlight the importance of cancer care.
Speaking to The Assam Tribune, the secretary of Deepsikha Cancer Care Foundation, Mrinmoyee Barua, mentioned that the foundation has become active in promoting awareness about cancer among the masses and has started to maintain hoardings. Three hoardings in and around the city have been put up to convey crucial information to the public, and it has received a good feedback on that.
Significantly, the foundation has been successful in building a volunteer base, which now numbers around 250. The group that includes both doctors and non-doctors has been instrumental in supporting its activities in various parts of the State. Their efforts have contributed to the success of programmes that the foundation and its partners have been running round the year.
Deepsikha Cancer Care Foundation has for some years provided valuable support to cancer patients and their families in Mumbai. The home at Masjid Bander in the metropolis accommodates poor cancer patients at Rs 35 in dormitories and Rs 60 in rooms, a facility rare in Mumbai. Ambulance services are also on offer for needy patients.
In Guwahati, the foundation has received accolades for maintaining an information- cum-help desk at Dr B Borooah Cancer Institute. From 2007, it has helped patients to get vital information, besides providing medicines at concessional rates.
Appreciating its role, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi recently recognized the work of the foundation by bestowing the Best Community Action Award on the foundation. The award has enthused all stakeholders who have been working in the area of cancer care and support to patients.
