Ahmedabad: The World Rose Day, annually observed across the world on September 22, aims at promoting awareness about early detection and prevention of cancer.
The day is also dedicated to cancer patients worldwide and honors their strength, determination, and courage while battling the prolonged disease.
It commemorates the 12-year-old Melinda Rose from Canada, who was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer, known as Askin’s Tumour, in 1994. Although doctors thought her survival was difficult beyond a few weeks, Rose went on to live for over three years.
She helped fellow young cancer patients by encouraging them through her motivational poetry in letters and emails.
Her struggle and undying spirit inspired millions of cancer patients globally. Therefore, on World Rose Day, people offer roses, cards, and gifts to those fighting against the disease.
Cancer occurs when the damaged cells start multiplying abnormally instead of being replaced by healthier cells in the human body. This multiplication rapidly grows and spreads to the adjoining areas through metastasis, eventually forming new tumors in other body organs.
Diagnosed under Ewing Sarcoma type of cancer, the Askin’s tumor is a rare occurrence that arises from the patient’s chest wall (commonly known as thoracopulmonary region) in the form of malignant, small, and round cyst-like blue tumor cells with a guarded prognosis.
The day is a tribute to Melinda Rose and cancer warriors as well as their journeys. Various hospitals, NGOs, and survivors organize special awareness programs, health campaigns and provide health facilities to combat cancer.
(Avya Mathur)