Udupi: In a celebration of perseverance and life beyond cancer, the Department of Paediatric Oncology, Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal, organised a special programme titled ‘Wings of Hope’ at the auditorium of the Manipal Hospice and Respite Centre (MHRC), Havanje, on Tuesday.The programme, centred on the themes of hope, strength and smiles, brought together nearly 65 childhood cancer survivors and their parents. The golden ribbon, the universal symbol of childhood cancer awareness, set the tone for the event, which honoured children who had overcome the disease.Theatre and film actor and National Film Award winner Roopashree Vorkady was felicitated on the occasion. She urged parents and children to place their trust in doctors and work closely with them during treatment.“I also urge survivor families to reach out to children who are still undergoing treatment, spend time with them and share their experiences. There is no greater source of strength for a child battling cancer than meeting someone who has walked the same path and emerged stronger,” she said.Speaking on behalf of the survivors and their families, Aishwarya, a cancer survivor, and Shwetha, the mother of a survivor, thanked the Department of Paediatric Oncology and the hospital for their support.“The doctors, nurses and caregivers stood by us like family during the most difficult days of our lives. Their tireless care and compassion have enabled our children to smile again,” they said.The programme was presided over by Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, Teaching Hospitals, MAHE, Manipal.The event featured age-specific breakout sessions. Children below 12 took part in a storytelling session followed by an origami activity, where they folded peace cranes symbolising hope, healing and peace. Older survivors participated in a creative writing and brainstorming session on the theme ‘Life Beyond Cancer’, sharing their aspirations and personal journeys.A special screening of the film Nale Raja Koli Majaa added to the festivities.One of the most poignant moments of the programme was the unveiling of a Memory Wall featuring photographs and stories of survivor children and their parents. The wall stood as a tribute to their resilience and the support of their families and caregivers.
