Islamabad (GNP): Serena Hotels held a panel discussion on breast cancer awareness, titled “Every Story Is Unique, Every Story Matters,” as part of its Raabta public diplomacy initiative. Medical experts, a mental health professional, a corporate leader and a breast cancer survivor spoke about early detection, prompt medical consultation, emotional well-being and support for people affected by the disease.
The event was meant to encourage open conversation about breast cancer, clear up common misconceptions and help women make informed decisions about their health. It stressed the value of accurate medical information, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment for better outcomes, while acknowledging the emotional and psychological strain on patients and their families.
The speakers were Dr. Kamran Rashid, oncologist and President of the Society of Medical Oncology Pakistan; Prof. Dr. Shela Alvi, psychiatrist, psychotherapist and mental health advocate; Fauzia Ahmed, Chief Human Resource Officer at Mari Energies; and breast cancer survivor Shams Aijaz Akram. Drawing on professional knowledge and personal experience, they examined the medical, psychological and social sides of breast cancer and argued for a comprehensive, compassionate approach to care.
Dr. Rashid spoke about recognising possible warning signs, seeking medical advice promptly and the part early detection plays in treatment. The discussion also touched on the hesitation and stigma that keep some women from seeking care, and on the need for reliable health information and access to it. Women, the panel noted, should consult qualified healthcare professionals and ask about suitable screening.
Prof. Dr. Alvi described the emotional and psychological toll of a diagnosis, which can bring uncertainty, anxiety and stress for patients and their families. She stressed empathy, open communication and access to psychological support as integral to treatment and recovery.
Fauzia Ahmed spoke about how organisations can promote health awareness and support women’s well-being. Awareness sessions, reliable information and a supportive workplace culture, she said, can encourage employees to look after their health and seek medical guidance, and make conversations about women’s health more open.
Shams Aijaz Akram shared her own experience as a survivor, adding a personal dimension to the event. Her account showed why sharing experiences matters in raising awareness, challenging misconceptions and encouraging others to seek help. It reflected the session’s central message that every woman’s journey is different and deserves to be heard with compassion, respect and understanding.
The session underlined the importance of early detection, informed healthcare choices, emotional support and shared responsibility, and the roles that individuals, families, health professionals and workplaces play in creating a supportive environment for women facing the disease.
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Through Raabta, Serena Hotels aims to provide a platform for meaningful conversations on health, well-being and issues of public importance, bringing together varied perspectives to raise awareness, strengthen community engagement and encourage dialogue.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
