By Fr Richard DSouza
Dec 11 : Bishop Peter Paul unveiled the logo of “SPARSHA” a Campaign against Cancer, jointly organized by CODP and Caritas India, on 10 December 2019, at CODP-ISD Nanthoor hall.
SPARSHA, includes awareness, prevention, detection, counseling and treatment of cancer , was symbolically inaugurated by Fr Richard Coelho Director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions by watering a Lakshman Fhal sapling which helps cancer patients in medication.
Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, his message said, that we need Cancer rehabilitation centres for patients in Mangalore. Prayer can cure cancer. It helps to face the Cancer and strengthens our heart, mind and soul to fight against cancer with God. The intercession of Saints, like St Mother Teresa of Kolkotta, reveals the divine intervention in curing a cancer patient.
Rev. Fr Richard Coelho in his message said, Fr Muller Hospital provides various services for Cancer patients and also helps them to overcome the diseases by treatments at the right time.
Mr Sachithananda M.L., District Co-coordinator of SAST, appreciated the initiative taken by CODP through ‘Sparsha’ program to create awareness in the society and also he gave information about various government schemes regarding health.
Fr Oswald Monteiro, Director of CODP, welcomed the dignitaries and stated that in Karnataka, the number of Cancer cases is increasing and he said ‘Sparsha’ program aims at creating awareness in the society about cancer and to prevent it.
Dr Rudolph Rodrigues, Pallative Medicine, A.J. Hospital, explained in detail about cancer, symptoms, identification and prevention through awareness talk.
Mrs Jesel D Souza the cancer survivor gave her testimony on Cancer and how she overcame this disease.
Fr Richard DSouza, Director of Canara Communications Centre, screened a video on ‘Sparsha’ Campaign and its focus and various activities.
Mrs Shilpa Raina DSouza, Coordinator of Sparsha and Ms Lenet Gonsalves, Program Manager of CODP compeered the program, CODP staff led the prayer and Mrs Rita D Souza, Coordinator of CODP proposed the Vote of thanks.
There were 90 participants who attended this programme.
