Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI;On November 24, 2024, the Social Work Programme at Goa University, in collaboration with the Medical Oncology Department of Goa Medical College, hosted a heartwarming celebration for 35 children battling cancer at Novotel Resorts, Candolim.
The event, titled “Joyful Journeys: A Day of Smiles and Strength,” aimed to provide these young warriors with a day of joy, laughter, and positive memories, away from the medical environment they face daily.
The event was filled with a variety of activities designed to uplift the spirits of the children and promote bonding among the families.
Interactive games and team-building exercises encouraged teamwork, while the children enjoyed moments of laughter and camaraderie. The highlight of the day was a cake-cutting ceremony, where children, caregivers, and faculty gathered to mark the occasion, symbolizing the strength, resilience, and unity of these brave young individuals.
The ceremony was met with enthusiastic applause, adding to the joyous atmosphere that defined the event.
Peter F. Borges, Assistant Professor (Social Work), shared, “We wanted to give these children a chance to experience happiness and joy, to allow them to just be children for a day.”
The event was made possible by the generous support of Novotel Hotels and Resorts, Candolim, and we express our heartfelt gratitude to the team. Special thanks go to Sachin Maheshwari, General Manager; Udayan Damodharan, Director of Talent and Culture; and Alex Dias, Executive Chef, for their incredible contributions.
The event was also attended by Dr. Ganesha Somayaji, Dean of the D.D. Kosambi School of Social Sciences & Behavioral Studies and Dr. Anupama Borkar, HOD of the Department of Medical Oncology, Goa Medical College and Hospital, and faculty of social work programme and doctors and support staff from the department, whose support and participation made this event even more meaningful.
The event highlighted the power of collaboration between academic institutions, healthcare providers, and local businesses to make a positive impact in the lives of children undergoing cancer treatment.
The success of “Joyful Journeys” is a testament to the collective strength of these partnerships and the difference we can make when we come together to support a cause.
