In a collaborative effort between Beyond Cancer Dimapur, Hair for Hope India, and Protect Your Mom Asia Hair, a “hair and wig donation” event and breast cancer awareness program was held at the Beyond Cancer Office here on Saturday.
Radiation Oncologist from CMC Vellore, on deputation to CIHSR Chumoukedima, Dr. Vishala Rosemarie Varghese, spearheaded the awareness session. Dr. Varghese emphasized the significance of biopsy as the definitive test to confirm cancer status. She delved into stages, tests tailored to various age groups, types of breast cancer, and root causes.
Highlighting the poorly understood nature of breast cancer in Nagaland, especially among women, she addressed risk factors and survival strategies. Expressing concern over the stigma associated with breast cancer, she underscored the social responsibility as an individual and community to educate the public. Dr. Varghese urged timely examinations for prevention, citing breast cancer as Nagaland’s second-highest cancer issue among women.
The event drew over 20 hair donors, including 9-year-old Alovi I Ayemi from St. Mary Higher Secondary School, Dimapur. Alovi, the youngest donor, contributed her hair as part of a missionary activity, who volunteered for the good cause.
Hairstylist from Shear Pleasure salon, Kaliho volunteered for the haircuts. Women Secretary of WSBAK, Akuvuto, Kakheli Inato Zhimo delivered a short speech, drawing inspiration from Philippians 4:6-7 and emphasizing the societal reluctance to accept cancer as an illness rather than a curse. She stressed the importance of awareness programs as bridges between pre and post-treatment phases.
Beyond Cancer Dimapur’s Founder President, Ahimsa Zhimo, reflected on the organization’s history since its inception in 2017.
Hetoli Shikhu chaired the session, and Associate Pastor, DABA, Imnatoshi led the invocation.
Ambassador of Hair for Hope India & Protect Your Mom Asia, Amen Jamir, led the pledge. Meanwhile, Cine Wig also Bangalore sponsored wigs for the cause.