Shikaripura Marches for a Cancer-Free Karnataka: M.I.O. Brings Drums, Data, and Early Detection to the Malnad Region

Taking Awareness to the Malnad Region

Taking its mission of early detection and "Cancer-Free Karnataka" to the Malnad region, Mangalore Institute of Oncology (M.I.O) and Sanjeevini Cancer Seva Trust (R.) organized a high-impact Cancer Awareness Rally and educational program in Shikaripura. The event was designed to cut through the myths surrounding the disease and empower the local community with life-saving knowledge.

Echoing the Message: The Beating of the Drums

The rally was inaugurated in a unique and powerful way by Sri Girish (Owner, Gokul Honda & Shaurya YHAI) and Sri Ravindra Naik (ACF, Forest Department, Shikaripura). In a symbolic gesture, the guests inaugurated the event by beating the drums, signifying that the "sound of awareness" should resonate in every household and break the silence that often surrounds a cancer diagnosis. Following the inauguration, the rally moved through the main roads of Shikaripura. Volunteers and M.I.O staff marched with placards and distributed pamphlets containing vital information on early warning signs and preventive measures, engaging directly with locals to answer their health-related queries.

Conclusion at Paura Vihara: A Community United

The rally culminated in a grand concluding program at the Paura Vihara Hall in Shikaripura. The stage was graced by a diverse group of community leaders, educators, and social activists:

• Mr. Girish, Gokul Honda & Shaurya YHAI
• Mr. Papayya, Bapuji Educational Institution
• Mr. Jabhi Ulla, Headmaster, Siddalingeshwara School
• Mr. Rafiq, Retired Teacher
• Mr. Chetan, Director, Kuruba Community and Member, Shaurya YHAI
• Mr. Siddaiah, Manager, Paura Vihara
• Mr. Praveen, Social Activist
• M.I.O. Staff: Mr. Raghavendra, Mr. Dinesh, and Mrs. Annapurna

Expert Insights: Turning Awareness into Action

The keynote session was delivered by Smt. Jestalaxmi Bolloor, Psychologist and Cancer Awareness Program Coordinator at M.I.O. She provided a comprehensive guide on:

• Early Diagnosis: How recognizing symptoms in the first few weeks can lead to a 100% cure rate in many cancers.
• Precautions: Practical lifestyle changes to minimize risk.
• Patient Support: How family and society can provide the psychological strength required for a patient to recover.

Empowering Local Leaders Through Data

A key highlight of the concluding program was the Household Survey Form session. The distinguished guests personally filled out these survey forms, a move designed to equip them with accurate information. By understanding the health landscape of their community, these leaders are now better prepared to guide and support the people who look to them for advice.

Education Is the Most Powerful Medicine

Through these grass-roots initiatives in Shikaripura, M.I.O continues to reaffirm that education is the most powerful medicine in the fight against cancer.

📞 Cancer Helpline: 8050636777

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