Bargarh (Odisha) -The Fighters Group, known for its continuous commitment to cancer awareness and support, marked Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Pink October with a deeply inspiring event dedicated to spreading hope, knowledge, and compassion. The program stood as a tribute not only to those battling cancer but also to the unseen heroes walking beside them — the caregivers.
October, globally recognized as “Pink October” symbolizes the spirit of strength, unity, and survivorship in the battle against breast cancer. The pink ribbon — a global emblem of courage and compassion — beautifully framed the essence of the event organized in Bargarh.
The awareness session was graced by eminent cancer specialist Dr. Bharat Chandra Mishra, who served as the chief guest. In his enlightening address, Dr. Mishra highlighted that breast cancer screening can reduce deaths by nearly 25%, and that early detection saves lives. He emphasized that when breast cancer is identified in its early stages, treatment becomes simpler, less invasive, and survival rates increase dramatically.
“Self-examination and screening are the strongest weapons against breast cancer,” Dr. Mishra asserted. He urged women to make self-examination a monthly habit and undergo clinical check-ups every year. He also advised adopting a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol to reduce risk.
To add creativity and engagement, the event featured a written quiz on breast cancer awareness and a symbolic ‘Pink Ramp Walk’ led by Fighters Group member Prativa Barik. Cancer survivors and women participants walked the ramp with pride and positivity — celebrating resilience, grace, and confidence. Inner Wheel Club’s past District Chairman Mamata Purohit and fashion designer Ritu Pipilani served as judges and felicitated the participants, appreciating their courage and enthusiasm.
The program began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the light of awareness and hope. General Secretary Ashima Bisoee welcomed all attendees and shared her own moving journey as a cancer survivor, which left the audience deeply emotional. Senior member Suryakanti Sikandar, who presided over the event, spoke about the need to keep the flame of awareness burning throughout the year, not just in October.
One of the most touching parts of the event was the tribute to caregivers, introduced for the first time by Fighters Group. The organizers beautifully reminded everyone that “a cancer warrior’s journey is incomplete without the strength of their caregiver.”
As part of this emotional recognition, Mrs. Prativa Barik, wife of late Biswajit Barik, former General Secretary of Fighters Group, was honored as the ‘Brave Cancer Caregiver’, acknowledging her compassion, courage, and silent endurance.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by senior member Amruta Behera, with joint secretaries Jayashree Panda, Pushpanjali Behera, Satyajit Dash, and Pratap Dash coordinating the successful program.
Through this inspiring celebration, Fighters Group once again reinforced the message that awareness, early detection, and empathy are the three strongest defenses against breast cancer. The gathering echoed a powerful reminder — that while cancer challenges the body, hope heals the spirit, and together, we can illuminate lives with courage, care, and compassion.
