In battling life-threatening diseases, a patient’s greatest strength lies in mental resilience. This strength often emerges when patients remain engaged in meaningful activities—something made possible through the encouragement and positive attitude of family members and loved ones. Equally, every individual in society carries a responsibility to step forward with empathy and a spirit of service.
These key messages were emphasized at a discussion program organized by the Center for Cancer Care Foundation (CCCF) on Saturday evening to mark Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. The event, titled “From Robipath to Jibonpath: Stories of Conquering Prostate Cancer” was held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 4:30 PM at Room 505, 6th Floor, Bishwo Sahitya Kendra, Banglamotor, Dhaka.
Inspiring Words from Survivors and Cultural Icons
Veteran actor Abul Hayat, himself undergoing treatment for prostate cancer since 2021, shared his personal journey:
“In our busy lives, we often hesitate to visit doctors or share our problems. I also faced such doubts, but this is not the right approach. Cancer patients must maintain a positive mindset and keep away from negative thoughts.”
He credited his wife, Shirin Hayat, along with his children and relatives, for giving him strength during his most difficult times.
“To live, one must live with joy. Work brings happiness. The more you work, the more beautiful life becomes.”
Cultural personality Afzal Hossain reminded the audience that while cancer is deadly, disconnection between people is an even greater threat:
“Retirement does not mean a person is obsolete. Society must embrace them and make them feel important. Let us love people while they are still among us—not only after they are gone.”
Magician Jewel Aich reflected on the immeasurable contributions of others in our lives:
“From morning till night, we rely on countless contributions of others. That debt can never be repaid in one lifetime.”
He urged society to support cancer patients, encourage medical body donation, and stand by cultural organizations while breaking taboos and superstitions.
Medical Insights
Oncologist Dr. Asim Kumar Sengupta emphasized the role of caregivers:
“A cancer patient’s mental strength comes from their family. That’s why it is crucial to surround them with positivity. One advantage of prostate cancer is that chemotherapy is not always required. At early stages, it is often curable.”
Professor Dr. Nasrin Chowdhury (BSMMU) discussed common symptoms of prostate cancer, urging awareness and timely screening. Other speakers included Dhaka University teacher Mushtaq Ibn Ayub.
CCCF’s Mission
CCCF President Rokshana Afroze expressed gratitude to all guests and participants, while Dr. Abu Jamil Faisal highlighted the foundation’s mission. He noted that CCCF was founded in 2023 by a group of cancer survivors dedicated to raising awareness and supporting patients.
The event was moderated by CCCF General Secretary Jahan-e-Gulshan, herself a cancer survivor, who explained:
“The purpose of this gathering is to connect with one another and to listen to stories of resilience in the face of a disease as formidable as cancer.”
The program opened with soulful musical performances by artist Sourendra Baral, who sang “If no one responds to your call” and “The bewilderment of hesitation insults the self.”