The Cyprus Anti-Cancer Society has been dedicated to providing free palliative care services to cancer patients for over 50 years.
Their vision is a future where no one affected by cancer feels unsupported. They strive to enhance the quality of life for patients and their families through specialized palliative care, education, research, and advocacy for patient rights. Founded in 1971, the organization was born from a commitment to address the urgent needs of those battling cancer when support was scarce.
Events like the Radisson Blu Larnaka International Marathon are vital in raising awareness and funds, allowing them to expand their services and support the community effectively.
Can you introduce your charity and provide an overview of its mission and purpose?
The Cyprus Anti-Cancer Society has been providing free palliative care services to cancer patients for over 50 years. We envision a future where no individual affected by cancer is left unsupported. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for people with cancer and their families through specialized support and palliative care services, as well as through education, research, and advocacy for patient rights. Empathy and mutual understanding guide our approach to patients and their families, as we uphold the dignity of each individual at every stage of life. Confidentiality is paramount; we protect the information entrusted to our healthcare professionals by patients and their families. Integrity is fundamental to our work, and we strictly adhere to ethical standards in all our services. We are accountable to Cypriot society, upholding patient rights to the fullest extent possible and building enduring relationships with patients and their loved ones. Finally, we are committed to professionalism, continually advancing our skills and knowledge for the benefit of those we serve.
What inspired the establishment of your charity, and what motivated its founders to address this particular cause?
The Cyprus Anti-Cancer Society was founded out of a deep commitment to address the urgent and growing needs of people affected by cancer in Cyprus. At a time when palliative care services were scarce (1971), our founders recognized the vital importance of offering compassionate, specialized support to those facing the challenges of cancer. They were motivated by a strong sense of social responsibility and a vision to ensure that every individual battling this disease would have access to quality care, emotional support, and respect for their dignity. This vision has guided our organization for over 50 years, as we continue to expand our services and advocate for patient rights, so that no one facing cancer is left without the help and resources they deserve.
What is the importance of events like the Radisson Blu Larnaka International Marathon to support your cause?
Events like the Radisson Blu Larnaka International Marathon are incredibly important for supporting our cause. They raise public awareness about the needs of individuals affected by cancer and highlight the significance of palliative care. Additionally, the funds raised through these events enable us to maintain and expand the free services we offer to patients and their families across Cyprus. Such initiatives exemplify the strength of community, reminding us that together, we can provide meaningful assistance and hope to those in need.