By Ashwini Darjee
BARGARH: Emphasized the crucial role of volunteers in supporting cancer patients. Cancer is a growing concern across the state, affecting both rural and urban areas, and there is a pressing need to raise awareness, promote early detection, and guide families towards appropriate treatment options. The “Fighters Group, consisting of cancer survivors, is actively working to create awareness and provide support to cancer patients and their families, not just medically but also financially and psychologically.The discussion during the Odisha State Cancer Volunteers meeting in Bargarh Sunday.
The Cancer Volunteers of Odisha (CVO) organized this statewide meeting to bring together various organizations and social workers dedicated to helping cancer patients. The objective was to share information on improving cancer treatment, collaborate with the government on various schemes, and raise funds to support cancer patients across the state.
During the meeting, oncologist Dr. Bharat Mishra highlighted the importance of volunteers studying the physical, mental, and financial conditions of cancer patients to better help them. Understanding the individual needs and challenges of each patient is crucial in providing appropriate support and care. Dr. Mishra said Cancer volunteers play a vital and equally important role in the recovery and well-being of cancer patients.
Cancer care supporters, who play a significant role in this context, are responsible for providing emotional, practical, and physical support to cancer patients and their families. They need to show empathy, compassion, and acknowledgment of the patients’ feelings and thoughts. Building a supportive and trusting relationship with the patients is essential to help them overcome emotional distress.
Education is also a critical aspect of cancer care support. Volunteers should educate patients and their families about cancer, treatment options, potential side effects, and coping strategies. Equipping them with reliable and accurate information empowers them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
The meeting saw participation from various organizations and individuals dedicated to cancer care, such as the Fighters Group, Umeedein, UIS Cancer Foundation, Jayaprava Cancer Foundation, Bagchi-Karunashaya Palliative Care, and the Acharya Harhari PG Institute of Cancer. Representatives from these organizations, along with oncologist Dr. Chitta Ranjan Kundu, discussed the role of volunteers in cancer care support.
Overall, the meeting served as a platform to unite efforts and resources from different corners of the state to improve the quality of cancer treatment and support for patients and their families. The active involvement of volunteers and organizations is crucial in the fight against cancer, and their collaborative efforts can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the disease.
Senior members Suryakanti Sikandar, Rajgopal Dash from Fighters Group, Nitai Panigrahi from Ummedein, Sukant Nand from Amritdhara, Gopal Dash from UIS Cancer Foundation, Madhumitra Dash from Jayaprava Cancer Foundation, Sahadev Sahu from Bagchi-Karunashaya Palliative Care, Acharya Harhari PG Institute of Cancer were present in this meeting. Dr. Priya Narayan and representatives from various cancer care organizations discussed the role of volunteers in cancer care support. Fighters Group Trust Chairman Aswini Kumar Darjee, President Prasanna Mishra, Treasurer Pratap Dash, Members Purushottam Bishi, Arjun Seth, Trilochan Sabat assisted in organizing the major event.
