Cancer patients support group meeting held

AHEAD OF the National Cancer Awareness Day on November 7, the Breast Cancer Support Group (BCSG) on Sunday held a meeting, which was attended by 45 women who have undergone surgeries for breast cancer removal.

AHEAD OF the National Cancer Awareness Day on November 7, the Breast Cancer Support Group (BCSG) on Sunday held a meeting, which was attended by 45 women who have undergone surgeries for breast cancer removal.

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“Dr Prakash Phanse, a Yoga expert, gave demonstrations for shoulder exercises at the meeting which would help in reducing post-surgery stiffness. He also taught simple pranayam (breathing exercises) to the members as it can help in increasing the oxygen level in the body and lead to overall wellness,” according to volunteer Vinita Agrawal of the BCSG, which is run under the aegis of Indore Cancer Foundation, set up nearly 18 years ago.

The support group, formally set up in October 2002 with the initiative of former Madhya Pradesh Health Secretary Aruna Sharma, helps women to cope up with post-surgery problems.

“The response for our meetings is increasing day by day. When we started, there were very few people, and today, more than 40 patients have come forward to join the support group,” Agrawal said at the meeting held at Shalini Bhouraskar Hall.

The BCSG plans to introduce emotional counselling soon. The members would also hold awareness drives at places where there is a considerable gathering, like colleges, banks and big housing societies.

A concept group ‘Commit to Care’, under the aegis of Indore Cancer Foundation, has already been launched in September to spread awareness among the masses about various types of cancers and its prevention, Agrawal added.