With 1,800 cases of cancer in Malta every year, it is more important than ever for organisations to show unity in the face of the deadly disease, according to President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca.

Ms Coleiro Preca was speaking at the launch of the National Cancer Platform, a new initiative bringing together the work of non-governmental organisations in support of cancer patients and their families.

“Statistics can sometimes obscure the reality of suffering that cancer causes. The physical hardship is apparent but we cannot forget the challenges faced by children who lose a parent or families deprived of their breadwinner,” said Ms Coleiro Preca.

The President praised the NGOs involved in the initiative for their openness to collaboration and called on them to maintain their autonomy and individual identities while working together to ensure a holistic and sustainable service for those affected by cancer.

Statistics can obscure the reality. We cannot forget the challenges of children who lose a parent or families deprived of a breadwinner

“This is the next step towards maturity in the social sector, the next step towards efficiency and effectiveness in the services we offer and the next step towards ensuring we give full value for the money we raise,” she said.

The organisations forming the National Cancer Platform are Action for Breast Cancer, Aurora Support Service, Europa Donna Malta, Hospice Malta, Karl Vella Foundation, Lumiere Support Group, Malta Community Chest Fund, Malta Health Network, Malta Cancer Awareness Group, Malta Health Network, Malta Cancer Awareness Group, The Ostomy Club and Puttinu Cares.

Among the plans for the platform is creating a calendar highlighting all events related to cancer awareness and support as well as a drop-in centre for anyone seeking help. The platform has also released an information booklet with details on the participating organisations and the services they offer as well as a new helpline: 8007 2388.