Udupi: In a celebration of perseverance and life beyond cancer, the Department of Paediatric Oncology, Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal, organised a special programme titled ‘Wings of Hope’ at the auditorium of the Manipal Hospice and Respite Centre (MHRC), Havanje, on Tuesday.
The programme, centred on the themes of hope, strength and smiles, brought together nearly 65 childhood cancer survivors and their parents. Children below 12 took part in a storytelling session followed by an origami activity, where they folded peace cranes symbolising hope, healing and peace.
There is no greater source of strength for a child battling cancer than meeting someone who has walked the same path and emerged stronger,” she said. The golden ribbon, the universal symbol of childhood cancer awareness, set the tone for the event, which honoured children who had overcome the disease. Theatre and film actor and National Film Award winner Roopashree Vorkady was felicitated on the occasion. She urged parents and children to place their trust in doctors and work closely with them during treatment. “I also urge survivor families to reach out to children who are still undergoing treatment, spend time with them and share their experiences. Speaking on behalf of the survivors and their families, Aishwarya, a cancer survivor, and Shwetha, the mother of a survivor, thanked the Department of Paediatric Oncology and the hospital for their support. The event featured age-specific breakout sessions. Older survivors participated in a creative writing and brainstorming session on the theme ‘Life Beyond Cancer’, sharing their aspirations and personal journeys.