World Cancer day – 4th February

World Cancer Day is one single initiative under which the entire world can unite together in the fight against the global cancer epidemic. It takes place every year on 4th  February. World Cancer Day aims to save millions of preventable deaths each year by raising awareness and education about cancer, and pressing governments and individuals across the world to take action against the disease. The Hope project of Mumbai Smiles is an initiative in this regard. Through this project, we aim to provide psycho social support to underprivileged children living with cancer in Mumbai. This project runs in collaboration with Holy Spirit Hospital in Andheri.

Recently, a party for Hope Beneficiaries was organized on 29 January 2014 from 3 to 5 p.m at Jyoti Bhavan, Creche, Holy Spirit Hospital, Andheri East, Mumbai. Many indirect beneficiaries and children from Creche were also present, along with their families. The primary incentive for organizing this party was to enable interaction between Cancer survivors and beneficiaries, while allowing them to have some fun at the same time.

Members present at the party included: Sr.Reena (HR, HSH), Sr.Sheetal (Finance Director, HSH), and Sr.Shruti (Ass.Finance director, HSH) Nino (Social worker) Jobin (Social worker), Sr.Asha (Crèche In charge), Sr.Emli (Cancer ward in charge) Mr. Arpit (Volunteer)

The party started with New Year greetings, followed by a prayer and song by Mark (a child from Crèche) and Crèche children respectively. Subsequently, there were performances by Hope beneficiaries, Ananya and Riddhi.  Ananya, a 9 year old HOPE Beneficiary, danced on a Bollywood song and Riddhi Salian, our 4 year old beneficiary, dressed up as “Rani Laxmibai”. At the end, a Musical chair competition was held for children, after which various gifts and snacks were distributed to them.

Everybody present enjoyed the event, especially children since they got an opportunity to demonstrate their talent. Sisters were elated and appreciated the performances, especially those of Ananya and Riddhi.