ISLAMABAD, OCT 26 /DNA/ – Serena Hotels, under its Public Diplomacy initiative, hosted a panel discussion on breast cancer awareness titled “Every Story Is Unique, Every Story Matters.” The session brought together medical experts, a mental health professional, a corporate leader and a breast cancer survivor to highlight the importance of early detection, timely medical consultation, emotional well-being and support for those affected by breast cancer.
The discussion aimed to encourage open conversations about breast cancer, address common misconceptions and emphasize the importance of awareness in helping women make informed decisions about their health. It highlighted the role of accurate medical information, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment in improving health outcomes, while also recognizing the emotional and psychological challenges that patients and their families may face.
The panel featured Dr. Kamran Rashid, Oncologist and President of the Society of Medical Oncology Pakistan; Prof. Dr. Shela Alvi, Psychiatrist, Psychotherapist and Mental Health Advocate; Fauzia Ahmed, Chief Human Resource Officer at Mari Energies; and Ms. Shams Aijaz Akram, Breast Cancer Survivor. Drawing on their professional expertise and personal experience, the panelists explored the medical, psychological and social aspects of breast cancer, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive and compassionate approach to care.
Dr. Kamran Rashid highlighted the importance of recognizing potential warning signs, seeking timely medical advice and understanding the role of early detection in breast cancer care. The discussion also addressed the hesitation and stigma that can prevent women from seeking medical attention, reinforcing the need for greater awareness and access to reliable health information. Encouraging women to consult qualified healthcare professionals and seek advice about appropriate screening can help support informed decisions about their health.
Prof. Dr. Shela Alvi highlighted the emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and the importance of mental health support throughout treatment and recovery. A diagnosis can bring uncertainty, anxiety and emotional stress for both patients and their families. She emphasized the importance of empathy, open communication and access to appropriate psychological support, ensuring that emotional well-being remains an important part of the care and recovery process.
Fauzia Ahmed highlighted the role of organizations and workplaces in promoting health awareness and supporting women’s well-being. Through awareness sessions, access to reliable information and a supportive workplace culture, organizations can encourage employees to prioritize their health and seek medical guidance when needed. Such efforts can also help create an environment where conversations about women’s health are approached with greater openness and understanding.
Sharing her personal experience, Ms. Shams Aijaz Akram offered the perspective of a breast cancer survivor, bringing a personal dimension to the discussion. Her participation highlighted the importance of sharing experiences to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions and encourage others to seek support. Her story reflected the central message of the session: every woman’s journey is different, and every experience deserves to be heard with compassion, respect and understanding.
The session reinforced the importance of early detection, informed healthcare decisions, emotional support and collective responsibility in promoting breast cancer awareness. It also highlighted the role that individuals, families, healthcare professionals and workplaces can play in creating a more supportive environment for women navigating the challenges associated with the disease.
Through its Raabta initiative, Serena Hotels continues to provide a platform for meaningful conversations on health, well-being and issues of public importance. By bringing together diverse perspectives and encouraging the exchange of knowledge and experiences, the initiative seeks to promote awareness, strengthen community engagement and support dialogue on subjects that matter to society.
