Sharjah: The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), a charitable society dedicated to providing support to cancer patients and their families in the UAE, has launched a Zakat fundraising campaign to assist financially burdened cancer patients during the holy month of Ramadan.
The campaign, held under the slogan “Worth More Than Words,” revolves around the social taboo surrounding the word “cancer,” which is often deemed sensitive and uncomfortable across cultures. The campaign aims to encourage individuals to contribute to the fight against cancer and provide financial support to the patients.
The FOCP’s Zakat campaign is held according to the Permanent Fatwa Committee of Sharjah’s guidelines, which authorise Zakat funds to be used towards supporting the medical requirements of patients who face financial obstacles.
Ms. Aisha Al Mulla, Director of the FOCP, commented that “donations received by the FOCP represent a main source of our resources that go towards alleviating the pain and spreading hope for cancer patients. No matter how small the donation may seem, the generosity of various community segments in this noble effort creates a significant difference for patients and can save the lives of thousands every year.”
“The FOCP collected AED 2.7 million last year, where most of the funds (60 percent) were allocated towards medicines and chemotherapy treatments. Additionally, 18 percent was spent on surgical operations and nine percent each on medical tests and radiotherapy. The remaining amount was utilised to acquire medical equipment and supplies,” the Director added.
The financial support provided by the FOCP in 2022 was extended to over 250 cancer patients, including 200 females, 34 males, and 16 children. Thousands of volunteers and beneficiaries have also been involved in the FOCP’s initiatives and programs aimed at raising awareness about cancer risks and early detection methods. The campaign further aims to gain the support of the public in assisting cancer patients during their recovery.