Indian Cancer Society Hosts ‘Gulabi Express’ to Bring Breast Cancer Survivors and Patients Together

New Delhi : The Indian Cancer Society (ICS), Delhi, organised ‘Gulabi Express’, an interactive programme bringing together breast cancer survivors and patients for a day of awareness, shared experiences and mutual support, as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The programme combined health education with music, interactive activities and opportunities for participants to connect with one another. Centred on the theme ‘A Journey of Hope, A Ride for a Healthier Tomorrow’, the initiative aimed to create a supportive space where participants could share their experiences and learn more about breast cancer.
Speaking about the importance of emotional support during the cancer journey, Renuka Prasad, Secretary of the Indian Cancer Society, Delhi said, “Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness about breast cancer, emphasise the importance of early detection and encourage people to seek timely medical advice. Our goal is to help prevent breast cancer through greater awareness and ensure that everyone has access to the right information and care. As someone who has been a breast cancer survivor for 30 years, I understand the emotional challenges faced by those diagnosed with the disease. No one should have to face cancer alone. Through initiatives like the ‘Breast Cancer Gulabi Express’, we want to create a supportive space where patients and survivors can connect and find the emotional strength to navigate their cancer journey.”
The programme featured a session on music for health and happiness by Dr. (Mrs.) Abhiruchi Tuli, followed by an interactive session with oncologist Surg Lt Cdr (Dr.) Anushree Vartak (Retd.), who addressed patients’ queries. A quiz on breast cancer myths and facts also helped participants engage with information about the disease.
Other activities included a ‘Pink Photo Frame Challenge’ for pairs and short video messages inviting participants to share their experiences of diagnosis, treatment, signs and symptoms, and precautions. Informal interactions provided further opportunities for survivors and patients to connect and support one another.
The event highlighted the importance of combining awareness and medical information with emotional support for people affected by breast cancer. By bringing survivors and patients together, the initiative sought to encourage open conversations, address common concerns and reinforce a message of hope throughout the cancer journey.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed every October, provides an opportunity to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage timely medical consultation and highlight the importance of early detection and appropriate care.
Through initiatives such as Gulabi Express, the Indian Cancer Society continues to promote cancer awareness and create opportunities for people affected by cancer to connect, share experiences and support one another.