24th October 2021, Mumbai
In a heartwarming display of compassion and solidarity, Minhaj Interfaith & Welfare Foundation (MIWF) recently organized a welfare event for cancer patients at Noori Hall, Lower Parel, Mumbai. This meaningful event, held on Sunday, 24th October, bore the title "We can beat Cancer together" and was conducted in collaboration with the Cancare Research Foundation. It brought together more than 150 cancer patients and their families, offering them hope, support, and a sense of togetherness during their challenging journey.
The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests of honor, including Zubair Ahmed (President MQII Maharashtra), Sajid Khan Saab (General Secretary MQII Maharashtra), Yusuf Shaikh Saab (Sahyog Foundation), Siddiq Saab (Haji Peer Hajj Tours), and Sagir Deshmukh Saab (Cancare Research Foundation). Their participation added to the significance of the occasion. The program commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, setting a spiritual tone for the day. The keynote speech was delivered by Maulana Ali Muhammad, who emphasized the divine principle of empathy and service to fellow human beings, deeply rooted in the teachings of all religious scriptures
He highlighted that the mission of serving humanity was being fulfilled through the efforts of Minhaj ul Quran, founded by Shaykh ul Islam Dr. Tahir ul Qadri, which spans across 90 countries, providing knowledge and assistance to those in need. Maulana Ali Muhammad also shared profound insights from hadith scriptures, underlining the curable nature of cancer and the importance of maintaining faith in Allah and His Prophet (peace be upon him) while seeking medical treatment. He commended the joint efforts of Minhaj Interfaith and Welfare Foundation and Cancare Research Foundation in their battle against cancer and called upon young community members to step forward and contribute to addressing societal challenges.
Sister Abrish Khan, representing the Hijab Community, addressed the gathering with a reminder of the mercy and solace found in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). She stressed that the Prophet was sent as a source of mercy to the world and that enduring suffering due to illness could bring great rewards, both in this world and in the hereafter.
Sagir Deshmukh, from the Cancare Foundation, delivered an informative presentation covering the causes, symptoms, preventive measures, and treatment options for cancer. He emphasized the importance of avoiding habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and the consumption of junk food to reduce the risk of cancer. Sagir Deshmukh also shed light on the significance of early detection, noting that the majority of cancers are not fatal if detected in their early stages. He praised the Cancer Research Foundation for its efforts to raise awareness about the disease through seminars, rallies, and public events and expressed gratitude for MIWF's involvement in the fight against cancer.
As the event drew to a close, Zubair Ahmed, President of MQII-Maharashtra, introduced two books, "Real Sketch of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)" and "Muhammad - The Merciful," authored by Shaykh ul Islam Dr. Tahir ul Qadri. These books provided valuable insights into the life and character of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and were offered to the audience as a source of knowledge and inspiration.
In addition to the valuable information and spiritual guidance shared during the event, attendees were provided with essential items, including food, health drinks, clothing, and literature on the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The event would not have been possible without the dedication of the volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure its success. Volunteers, including Saif Khan Saab, Haider Saab, Faiyaz Shaikh Saab, Irshad Ali Hussain Saab, Mohsin Saab, Vikas Saab, Arshad Saab, Sister Amna, Sister Mantasha, and Sister Abrish, played a pivotal role in the event's organization and execution.
The welfare event for cancer patients exemplifies MIWF's commitment to alleviating suffering, providing support, and fostering a sense of community among those facing health challenges. It stands as a testament to the values of empathy, service, and unity, reminding us all of the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need, especially during their times of greatest vulnerability.
