Twelve cancer survivors representing six nationalities came together in Dubai to share stories of courage, resilience and hope, as Aster Volunteers COSMOS strengthened its community-based cancer support network in the UAE.
The survivors, whose cancer journeys ranged from Stage 0 to Stage 4, were among more than 400 cancer survivors, volunteers, healthcare professionals, caregivers and community members who participated in the first Aster Volunteers – COSMOS Orientation Programme, held on 29 June 2026 at Amity University, Dubai International Academic City.
Organised by Aster Volunteers, the global CSR initiative of Aster DM Healthcare, the programme marked an important milestone in the development of the UAE chapter of Aster Volunteers COSMOS with an idea “Circle of Strength, Master of Self” – a specialised community initiative focused on emotional, psychosocial and peer support for people affected by cancer.
COSMOS brings together cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, volunteers and healthcare professionals to create a support ecosystem where individuals and families can connect, share experiences and find strength throughout the cancer journey. Through survivor buddy programmes, peer engagement, group sessions, counselling, workshops and resource sharing, COSMOS complements clinical care by addressing the emotional and psychosocial dimensions of cancer.
Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, said: “At Aster, we believe healthcare extends beyond medical treatment to include the emotional, psychological and social wellbeing of patients and their families. Through Aster Volunteers COSMOS, we are creating a compassionate support network that brings together the right stakeholders to provide hope, encouragement and strength throughout the cancer journey. We are confident that this initiative will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people affected by cancer in UAE and beyond.”
The experiences and voices of cancer survivors were at the heart of the programme. The participating survivors took part in the “Walk of Courage”, celebrating their journeys and encouraging others facing cancer with a message of hope, resilience and the importance of timely care and meaningful support.
One of the key highlights of the programme was a special session titled “Story of Resilience & Love,” which explored a father’s journey alongside his daughter during her cancer treatment and the positive impact of her journey on society. The story was narrated by Mr. Iqbal Ahmad Khan, Chief Executive Officer, Fajr Capital, and Member of the Board of Directors, Aster DM Healthcare (GCC), who attended the programme as the Chief Guest.
The programme also featured a multidisciplinary panel discussion exploring the cancer journey from diagnosis onwards. Healthcare professionals and cancer survivors discussed the importance of compassionate communication, advances in cancer treatment, emotional wellbeing, caregiver support and the value of a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.
The panel brought together experts from Aster and Medcare, including Dr. Malathi Arshanapalai, Group Chief Medical & Quality Officer, Aster DM Healthcare; Ms. Celin Jacob, Chief Operating Officer, Aster Hospital, Qusais & Muhaisnah; Dr. Pranay Taori, Consultant & Specialist in Medical Oncology, Aster Hospital, Qusais; Dr. Afsal Muhammed, Consultant & Specialist Oncology Surgeon, Aster Hospital, Qusais; Dr. Mohamad Azzam Ziade, Consultant & Specialist in Hematology & Oncology, Medcare Hospitals UAE; Dr. Annu Susan George, Consultant & Specialist in Medical Oncology, Medcare Hospitals UAE; Dr. Ramanathan V, Cancer Survivor and Group Medical Director, Aster Hospitals & Clinics UAE; and Dr. Alka Kalra, Cancer Survivor and Psychologist. The session was moderated by Ms. Sarah Ilyas, Chief Nursing Officer, Aster Hospitals & Clinics UAE, Bahrain & Oman, Project Owner of Aster Volunteers COSMOS and a cancer survivor herself.
The orientation programme also marked the establishment of the Aster Volunteers COSMOS Advisory Group and the introduction of a structured leadership framework for the COSMOS Programme Committee engaging the various stakeholders including caregivers. The Advisory Group will include eminent healthcare professionals and community members associated with the initiative, including Dr. Sherbaz Bichu, CEO of Aster Hospitals & Clinics – UAE, Bahrain, and Oman, Dr. Shanila Laiju, Group CEO – Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres, Dr Lalu Chacko – Group Medical Director, Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres, Ms. Akansha Dicholkar, Group Chief Nursing Officer, Medcare Hopsitals & Medical Centres, Dr. Junaid Bin Ahmed, Chief Operating Officer, Aster Hospital Mankhool & Aster Cedars Hospital & Clinic, Jebel Ali, and the eminent panelists, along with other members of the extended COSMOS support network.
Ms. Sarah Ilyas has been appointed Chair of the Advisory Group, with Ms. Celin Jacob serving as Co-Chair and Ms. Akansha as Programme Convener. Additional leadership roles within the Programme Committee will be developed through volunteer engagement, with members of the COSMOS community invited to contribute to the programme’s upcoming initiatives and activities. The new structure will support the next phase of COSMOS by strengthening survivor engagement, expanding volunteer participation, developing community partnerships and enabling more structured emotional and psychosocial support for patients and their families.
“Cancer affects more than the individual receiving a diagnosis. It impacts families, caregivers and the wider community. COSMOS is built on the belief that people should not have to navigate this journey alone. Through COSMOS, we are creating a sustainable support ecosystem built on connection, shared experiences and compassion,” said Ms. Sarah Ilyas.
The UAE chapter of Aster Volunteers COSMOS is supported by a growing network of more than 400 registered Volunteers who contribute their time, experience and expertise towards building a more inclusive support system for people affected by cancer.
The programme also included a Basic Life Support Awareness Session, interactive activities, and cultural and entertainment performances, creating an environment of learning, connection and celebration.
Initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic in response to the emotional and mental health challenges experienced by cancer patients, Aster Volunteers COSMOS has since evolved into a structured community support programme. Its work is guided by the principles of Care, Compassion and Community.
As the initiative continues to grow, Aster Volunteers aims to expand the reach of COSMOS through volunteer engagement, peer mentoring, survivor-led initiatives and community partnerships. Guided by its core belief that “No one should fight cancer alone,” the programme seeks to strengthen the support available to individuals and families navigating cancer across the UAE and beyond.
