FOCP honours entities for role in fight against cancer

The UAE-based civil society organisation, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), highlighted the extraordinary spirit of unity and collaboration demonstrated by the UAE’s public, private, and civil society sectors in the fight against cancer at the 2024 FOCP Awards Ceremony. Held at Sharjah’s House of Wisdom, the event honoured FOCP’s partner organisations and individuals from across a multitude of industries for their contributions to raising awareness and advancing early detection of breast cancer through FOCP’s initiatives.

Dignitaries including Sheikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah; Sheikha Jawahar Bint Abdulla Al Qasimi, Board Member Treasurer, and Aisha al Mulla Director of FOCP attended the event alongside representatives from key sectors such as healthcare, education, retail and finance.

The evening began with a symbolic video presentation illustrating the collective impact of FOCP’s Pink Caravan initiatives.

This was followed by a welcoming speech by Sheikh Fahim, during which he underscored the power of collaboration in creating lasting change.

“In the UAE, with the unwavering commitment of organisations like Friends of Cancer Patients, which operates under the vision and directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, and Founder and Patron of FOCP, we have chosen not to be bystanders. Together we are tackling this adversary head-on, transforming lives through awareness, prevention, and access to care. This is not just about addressing a disease – it’s about empowering communities to protect their future.”

“The Pink Caravan and other FOCP initiatives have been pivotal in advancing early detection, a proven life-saving strategy. To date, these efforts have facilitated hundreds of thousands of screenings, enabling countless individuals to receive timely diagnoses and treatment. This is the power of collective action – a power made possible by each of you in this room tonight,” he further noted.

The award recognised organisations demonstrating unparalleled commitment to supporting FOCP’s initiatives.

This year, honorees such as Crescent Petroleum, Sharjah Media City (Shams), Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Arada, Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC), FAST Building Contracting Co. (L.L.C), and MSD stood out for their steadfast dedication to fostering hope and care for cancer patients. Collaboration was also spotlighted through the Partner Excellence Award, which celebrated organisations like Alabbar Enterprises, BijouQ Jewellery, DHL, and DMCC. Their combined efforts have been instrumental in amplifying FOCP’s vision, enabling impactful projects that reach patients and communities in need.

In addition, the Medical Excellence Awards recognised the invaluable contributions of healthcare partners who deliver superior care and unwavering support to patients.