Pink Ribbon symbolises support for Breast Cancer Awareness worldwide. It is an emblem of hope for breast cancer patients and survivors.
awareness
Pink Ribbon symbolises support for Breast Cancer Awareness worldwide. It is an emblem of hope for breast cancer patients and survivors. For the sake of creating awareness, Pink Ribbon Campaign was established in Pakistan in 2004, by Mr Omer Aftab, a social activist.Pakistan has the highest rate of breast cancer among all Asian countries. One out of nine women in Pakistan is likely to suffer from breast cancer. In Pakistan ever year, approximately 90,000 cases are diagnosed and over 40,000 women die of breast cancer. Low level of female literacy, cultural beliefs, taboos, myths and misconceptions hinder early diagnosis and treatment. With early detection, the chance of curing breast cancer is over 90 per cent. This is the message we need to spread.
The Pink Ribbon Campaign focuses on spreading awareness and establishing Pakistan’s first dedicated Breast Cancer hospital. The hospital project cost is estimated at Rs 500 million of which Rs 50 million has already been raised. A plot has been acquired in Lahore and formalities are completed for ground breaking.
In this regard, ‘Friends of Pink Ribbon Karachi Chapter’ has been launched in the mega city. A committee, comprising humanitarians, has been formed to spread awareness and to generate funds for the Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer hospital in Lahore.
Recently, the committee organized a Pink Tea Fundraiser with a live band complemented with scrumptious tea. The event was attended by eminent social personalities and philanthropists. The live music was organized by Club 777 and floral decor was arranged by Lubna Malik. The inclusion of a photo booth, silent auction and prizes for the guests made the evening even more entertaining.
The fundraiser also featured inspiring talks by Mr Omer Aftab, CEO of Pink Ribbon; Dr Rufina Soomro, leading general and breast surgeon; Mrs Marium Malik, a breast cancer survivor and Mehnaz Karamat, Chairperson, Friends of Pink Ribbon (Karachi Chapter). It’s heartening to note that business giants like Gul Ahmed and Triumph are also actively promoting the cause by donating generously for the Breast Cancer hospital. Speaking at the occasion, Mehnaz Karamat said, “Friends of Pink Ribbon Karachi wishes to thank the community from corporates and small businesses, event managers, restaurants, salons, spas, boutiques, florists and gyms who have contributed generously in cash and kind to make the event a great success. We also urge the women of Karachi, to open up their hearts and support this great cause in every way they can.”
