THE courage and resilience of cancer warriors was acknowledged by the women of the Al Ansaar Cancer Support Group who celebrated International Cancer Survivors Month in June with a pamper session for their members.

At the hall in Overport, where the women meet for their monthly support group, laughter and joy rang out as the members were told that they would be getting head and shoulder massages, their make-up and nails done, and beautiful henna designs on their hands. “This is all about celebrating your strength, courage and your resilience in overcoming cancer,” said Zohra Jadwat of the Al Ansaar Cancer Support Group.

She reminded the women that the month of June is dedicated to them, survivors, and that they should hold their heads up high. “We are honouring every single one of you, be proud of yourselves because you are courageous survivors. Never ever forget that,” said Jadwat.

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Her encouragement resonated deeply with Hassina Kader who recently joined the group. “I am inspired and in awe of the women that I have met through this cancer support group,” said Kader. “When I joined the group, some of the women were using wheelchairs but today are walking independently. It gives me hope as I go through my own battle and journey.”

She thanked the group for arranging a pamper session for the cancer survivors. “As women we always put our work and family first, leaving no time for ourselves. The Al Ansaar Cancer Support Group hosting a pamper day was the perfect gift for each and every one of us. It was very much needed, so thank you for a memorable and awesome day.”

Her gratitude and joy was shared by Dianne Scott, who on Monday celebrated her birthday and three years of surviving cancer. She said, “I was happy to have my make-up done. I miss my long and curly hair, but this pamper session reminded me of who I was before finding out that I had breast cancer.”

With the rest of her year full of travel opportunities and visiting family abroad, Scott encouraged survivors to live their lives to the fullest. “Find a support group that resonates with you and enjoy life,” she said. “I met these ladies three years ago and the support that I have received makes me feel loved and it gives me strength to keep fighting and surviving, for myself and my family.”

The group meets once a month on the second Saturday of each month, from 09:30 to 11:30 at 189 West Road in Overport. For more information, contact Rubina Paruk on 082 786 8815 or on 031 208 1601 ext 113.

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