Path forward: Stories of hope, knowledge and support for breast cancer

MANILA, Philippines — Once diagnosed with breast cancer, a patient will undergo management and treatment depending on the need. But unlike any other health conditions, battling cancer is a long and tedious journey for both the patient, their loved ones, and healthcare providers.

For breast cancer patient Ruth Alido, her battle of the Big C does not start and end with only her. “They say it takes a village to raise a child. But for me, it also takes an entire village to take care of a sick person, especially those with cancer”.

To continuously provide warmth, comfort, and hope to Ruth and others, Manila Doctors Hospital launched the Rays of Resilience, an institutionalized cancer support group that provides safe and compassionate space for the community of cancer patients and their families. It reiterates the significance of shared learning and experience among cancer patients and survivors along with their families and loved ones.

“This cancer support group is a fruition of our dream to have a community of people with shared experiences, a group they can rely on for emotional support and empowerment. We want them to be part of something that offers them encouragement, understanding, and meaningful activities for them and their families to enjoy”, said Dr. Cherry Fernando, head of MDH Cancer Institute.

Apart from the institutionalized cancer support group Rays of Resilience, MDH also launched the Box of Hope.

It is a special token designed to support cancer patients with care, comfort and encouragement. “Each Box of Hope includes thoughtful items that provide warmth, inspiration, and support to their journey. More than just a gift, it is a reminder that no one fights alone”, Fernando adds.

Coinciding with the launch of the MDH cancer support group is the celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness month in October.

With the theme “Knowledge is Power: Cancer Education for All”, MDH Cancer Institute advocates better learning and understanding about the causes, treatment, risk factors, and other pertinent details about cancer.

For breast cancer alone, data show that the Philippines has one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates and the lowest mortality-to-incidence