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As part of its commitment to improve the quality of life of every cancer patient, the Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI-EJACC), in partnership with AKVO Applied Psychology Center, once again journeyed with cancer patients and their families through a psychosocial activity.

The activity, entitled ‘The Science and Art of Happiness and Well-being,’ was held last July 21, 2018 at the CAP Auditorium on Osmeña Blvd., Cebu City.

The activity aimed to empower cancer patients with the belief that happiness is a choice they have to make in every circumstance. Despite all the stress they may encounter, the participants were reminded that to attain well-being, they have to take charge not only of their physical aspect but also their psycho-emotional aspect as well.

“Our thoughts, feelings, beliefs & attitude can positively or negatively affect our biological functioning,” said Dr. Anna Kathrina Watin, PhD, the activity resource speaker and head of AKVO.

The whole day event was attended by a total of 84 cancer patients, some of whom were joined by their family members. The attendees were EJACC patient beneficiaries and members of the different cancer support groups namely ICanServe Foundation, Cebu Cancer Fight Inc., Strong Defenders & Thyca Warriors. The entire day was packed with fun-filled activities, spirit-lifting lectures, music therapy, & heart-moving sharing of experiences.

“The unique healing power of togetherness has a perfection of its own. Another patient’s presence is already enough to be a resource to another,” said Ronald Delos Reyes, EJACC Program Coordinator, on the benefits of cancer survivors coming together.

Filomena Sy, one of the attendees, said she was thankful for what having been afflicted with cancer has taught her.

“Indeed whatever our circumstances may be, life is beautiful,” Sy added.

In store for the cancer survivors for the remaining months of the year are more psychosocial activities designed for their survivorship. Other than these, RAFI-EJACC is also about to pilot run its partnership with TESDA for its capacity-building activities.

The Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI-EJACC) saves those who can be saved by eradicating the stigma of cancer through its programs in cancer advocacy & education, screening & early detection, treatment assistance and Palliative Care.