KUCHING, Feb 15: Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) has launched a week-long digital campaign from Feb 9 to 15, that aims to explore the challenges patients and their families face to access treatment throughout Sarawak.
This is in conjunction with the three-year campaign launched by the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) and Childhood Cancer International (CCI) for International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD), to raise awareness of the crucial role of community participation and addressing the challenges related to this illness.
According to a press release, SCCS said their week-long campaign details logistical challenges faced by several patients and their caregivers hailing from parts of Sarawak outside of Kuching, documenting their journey of leaving home for prolonged periods to access life-saving cancer treatments at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH).
Some of these families have even been separated for over six months.
SCCS initiated engagement activities with childhood cancer patients and families during the clinic day at the SGH’s Paediatric Specialist Clinic and the Paediatric Ward here today.
“Over 20 families participated in a physical arts and crafts activity at the clinic to create coloured, handprint drawings, later hanging their masterpieces onto a tree to signify a show of support, hope and appreciation.
“Through this awareness campaign, SCCS hopes to shed light on the daunting journey of childhood cancer traversed by patients and their families. By amplifying their voices and experiences, SCCS aims to foster greater understanding and support in the community for those affected by childhood cancer,” it said.
Members of the public or corporations who are interested in donating or engaging in corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects may contact the SCCS team at 082-686276, via Facebook @sccsmy or email at em1@sccs.org.my. — DayakDaily
