Joyful Hearts brings cheer to child cancer patients

NT Reporter

Panaji

Children undergoing cancer treatment at Goa Medical College were treated to a day of joy, solidarity and emotional support as part of International Childhood Cancer Day observances in the state.

The event brought together young patients, their caregivers, doctors, nurses, therapists and volunteers.

“Emotional and psychosocial support play a crucial role in a child’s recovery and resilience, alongside medical treatment,” said Dr Anupama Borkar, head of the Department of Medical Oncology at Goa Medical College (GMC), speaking at a special outreach programme titled ‘Joyful Hearts’ at Mobor, on Sunday.

The event was organised by The Human Touch Foundation in collaboration with the Department of Medical Oncology, GMC.It was hosted by Holiday Inn, Mobor. “While medical treatment fights the disease, compassion, community and collective care sustain a child’s spirit,” said president of Human Touch FoundationPeter Borges.

He said the initiative aimed to ensure that every child felt seen, celebrated and not alone in their journey. The organisers said the outreach programme was to create awareness that childhood cancer care extends beyond hospital walls and is strengthened when healthcare professionals, civil society and community partners stand together with
affected families.

The programme featured games, creative activities, music, face painting and shared meals, offering families a much-needed respite from hospital routines and treatment schedules.