SSGC commemorated Pinktober Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a symposium that focused on the cancer’s early detection and treatment and mental well-being of cancer patients, survivors and care-givers. The program held on October 20, 2023, under the banner of the Company’s Synergy-Talks Speakers’ Session was organized by the Corporate Communication Department exclusively for the female employees of SSGC at the SSGC Head Office Auditorium. Dr. Zubia Maqsood, Associate Professor and Breast Surgeon and Ms. Azra Maqsood, development strategist, mentor and breast cancer survivor were guest speakers. Javeria Abdul Salam, Assistant Manager, Corporate Communications, was the emcee.
In her presentation, Ms. Maqsood shared her experience of being a cancer patient and how a strong disposition and a never say die attitude converted her from being a suffering breast cancer patient to be a survivor. She stressed that it was natural for a breast cancer patient to feel depressed, stressed and outraged yet by following a certain lifestyle, one can successfully work on her mental well-being.
In her speech, Dr. Zubia Masood emphasized that even though breast cancer cases are on the rise, yet early detection and screening can increase survival rate. Dr. Masood’s talk also focused on timely treatment, including chemotherapy.
During the session, a video of a courageous SSGC female employee Ms. Asma Butt who fought cancer valiantly till her last breath was screened. Ms. Butt’s struggle inspired many employees in the Company and externally to rise despite all odds.
SSGC employees asked speakers during their presentations a number of questions related to breast cancer treatment and mental well-being. Especially created lapel pins signifying PINKtober awareness month and brochures on breast cancer awareness were distributed among the audience.
Dr. Zahid Ali Faheem, Chief Medical Officer, SSGC and Salman A. Siddiqui, Head of Corporate Communications underscored the need for early detection of the ailment including timely screening and checking. They agreed that while emotional turmoil was common along the breast cancer patients, yet psychological interventions and proper counselling can help overcome challenges associated with the disease. In the end, the CMO presented the speakers with mementoes and company souvenirs.
