The Bedaya Centre for Entrepreneurship and Career Development (Bedaya Centre), a joint initiative by Qatar Development Bank (QDB) and Silatech, recently held a session to raise awareness on breast cancer.
The event was held in the presence of cancer survivor Asma Bu Jassoom, in collaboration with TV anchor and ambassador of Qatar Cancer Society Asmaa al-Hammadi, at the Market Café.
The session, titled ‘Prevention … A Small Step that Goes a Long Way’, was moderated by al-Hammadi. Jassoom spoke about her journey with the disease and the methods of treatment that were followed to fight her battle. 
Jassoom said her success encouraged her to share her experience with the participants, spread the spirit of hope, and create awareness about the importance of early examination and screening to avoid the disease.
During the discussion, she added that the support of family and friends “is of paramount importance,” as they are the ones who raise the morale of cancer patients. She said the availability of therapy and an excellent medical team helped her fight and overcome breast cancer.
“Despite the health and psychological state I experienced, I found another aspect of the disease and that was the passion and compassion that I felt from my family and friends,” Jassoom added.
She said that with psychological support, optimism, and following the guidance of a specialised medical team, cancer treatment was possible and the ability to lead a natural life after recovery.
“The experience has taught me to look at life in a better perspective and given me the understanding of life in a deeper meaning,” she said.
Reem al-Suwaidi, general manager, Bedaya Centre, said: “Many breast cancer awareness campaigns are held globally, especially in October to push the community for screening and examination for early detection of the disease and ways to prevent it.
“Therefore, we held a discussion session on this subject due to its importance and our keenness to contribute in spreading and raising awareness among the community about breast cancer and to support the efforts led by our wise government in this regard.”