As Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, stories of resilience and hope emerge, particularly from cancer survivors who are now turning their personal battles into community support. These individuals are leading the charge in giving back, offering hope and tangible aid to those currently undergoing treatment.

Rose Okoko, diagnosed with breast cancer four years ago, faced a grueling journey that included surgery, chemotherapy, and a mastectomy. “It was tough, but I stayed positive because my God can never give me a burden too heavy to handle,” Rose recalls. “With the incredible support of my family, friends, and medical team, I made it through.”

Now on hormonal therapy, Rose is determined to ease the burden for others. She recently organized a donation drive with close friend Shamim Obala, also a cancer survivor and leader of the Anchor of Hope cancer support group. Together, they made a generous donation to the oncology department at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).

“I remember how difficult it was to manage everyday tasks; the disease robs you of your energy and time,” Shamim explains. “We wanted to ease that burden for patients currently undergoing treatment.” Their initiative provides not only practical assistance but also vital inspiratial.

While the combined efforts of survivors and private donors create a powerful force, the survivors stress that the fight against cancer requires robust government intervention.

“It is important because this thing is draining,” Rose emphasizes. Survivors and patients are making a heartfelt appeal to the government to help with the substantial costs associated with cancer treatment. They are not asking for a specific budget allocation but rather a policy to offer free treatment for cancer patients, given the high expense of the entire process.

“Our awareness and early detection efforts would also really help,” Shamim notes. “I hope our story encourages others to get screened, support those affected by cancer, and remember that there is life after diagnosis.”

The efforts of Rose and Shamim serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the crucial role of community support in the face of adversity. Their initiative offers a beacon of hope for those navigating cancer.