JAMMU, Nov 4: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Vijaypur, Jammu, organised a special programme to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026, honouring breast cancer survivors and celebrating their courage, resilience and inspiring journeys of recovery. The survivors were felicitated in recognition of their strength and determination in overcoming the challenges of the disease. The programme also sought to reinforce their confidence, emotional well-being and sense of belonging to the AIIMS Jammu family.
The institute’s multidisciplinary approach brings together surgical oncology and radiotherapy services. Dr. Paras Khanna, Assistant Professor, Department of Surgical Oncology and Dr. Girija Priya Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiotherapy, contribute to these services as part of the breast cancer care team.
Prof. (Dr.) Shabab Lalit Angurana, Dean Research and Professor & Head, Department of Radiotherapy, AIIMS Jammu, emphasised that effective breast cancer care extends beyond medical treatment to encompass empathy, dignity and emotional well-being. He highlighted the vital role of faculty members, nursing personnel and hospital staff in creating a compassionate and reassuring environment that instils confidence in patients and their families.
Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev Sinha, Executive Director & CEO, AIIMS Jammu, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to standing alongside patients and their families at every stage of their breast cancer journey. Emphasising that patients and their families are an integral part of the AIIMS Jammu family, he highlighted the comprehensive, patient-centred breast cancer care available at the institute, from early detection and diagnosis to advanced treatment. He underscored the critical Radiotherapy importance of breast cancer awareness, timely screening and early diagnosis, noting that detecting the disease at an early stage can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
A significant highlight of the programme was the participation of breast cancer survivors, who shared their personal journeys of diagnosis, treatment and recovery, along with their experiences of care at AIIMS Jammu. They expressed their gratitude for the compassionate care, encouragement and support extended by the institute’s healthcare team throughout their treatment journeys. Their heartfelt accounts of perseverance and hope offered encouragement to fellow patients and conveyed a reassuring message that no one needs to face cancer alone.
The programme also witnessed participation from survivors residing in distant areas, including Rajouri and Kishtwar, who shared their experiences through recorded video testimonials. Their contributions ensured that geographical distance did not prevent them from being part of the celebration, reflecting the strong bond between patients and the AIIMS Jammu healthcare team.
The celebration reinforced a sense of solidarity and mutual support among survivors, who stood shoulder to shoulder in sharing their experiences and encouraging one another. It also highlighted the importance of maintaining a supportive relationship between patients, their families and healthcare professionals beyond the course of treatment.