World Cancer Day 2026: UNTH Foundation, CALMHAF & Oncoclinics Deliver Holistic Cancer Support in Enugu
The UNTH Foundation, in partnership with Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation (CALMHAF) and in collaboration with Oncoclinics, successfully conducted an impactful outreach program on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Radiotherapy Center, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu State, to mark World Cancer Day.
The event, themed “United by Unique – UNTH Foundation, Cope & Live, UNTH Oncoclinics Deliver Unstoppable Hope in Enugu,” brought together healthcare providers, cancer patients, their families, and community members to emphasize holistic care that addresses both physical and emotional needs. This collaborative effort highlighted the power of partnership in delivering people-centered care, aligning with the year’s World Cancer Day theme of unity and recognition of unique individual experiences in the fight against cancer.
Representatives from UNTH Foundation, Cope, Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, and Oncoclinics joined forces, building on prior media promotions across Afia TV, Afia Radio, Urban Radio, and Dream 92.5 FM to raise awareness. The outreach focused on supporting cancer patients and families through specialized mental health services, including:
- Early mental health screening to identify distress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional concerns.
- Mental health awareness and education sessions to reduce stigma and equip individuals with practical coping skills.
- Individual counseling providing compassionate, personalized support for treatment-related stress, fear, grief, adjustment difficulties, and stages of grief (noting that prolonged denial can act as a temporary buffer but may delay help-seeking and treatment adherence if unaddressed).
Additional activities included health education, physiotherapy sessions, open dialogues, survivor stories, education on emotional well-being, and direct support to empower patients, families, and healthcare providers. Additionally, the UNTH Foundation gifted annual health insurance coverage to 10 indigent cancer patients (excluding breast, cervical, and prostate cancers) to facilitate their treatment and management.
This initiative provides free medical consultations, clinical investigations, and a 10% payment on drugs, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, easing financial burdens for these patients. To support UNTH Foundation’s efforts, visit www.unthfoundation.org and follow all social media platforms to learn how to get involved, donate, or volunteer. Thank you for your support, prayers, and encouragement.
