Our involvement and the existence of a support program for cancer patients in the Northeast and upcountry regions of Sri Lanka originated from a group of individuals whose families had been affected by cancer and sought to make a positive impact.

The initiative stemmed from the loss of a mother to breast cancer, discovered at a late stage due to insufficient patient awareness. Following her passing, her son (who is known to us) resolved to help cancer patients residing in the north and east of Sri Lanka. Rallying 15 or so friends who shared similar experiences, they launched a fundraising campaign in 2018, collecting £12,500.

Initially, their aim was to conduct an awareness campaign in areas where the effects of war had compromised healthcare infrastructure and resources. The campaign kicked off in Paranthan, engaging medical students and physicians, before extending to Mullaitivu, Vavuniya, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa. Alongside educating communities on early cancer detection, volunteers were able to identify suspicious lumps, referring patients to Tellipalai Cancer Hospital for further evaluation. Recognising the financial strain faced by patients, particularly those requiring travel to Maharagama Cancer Hospital, they established a monthly support system, a novel concept in this region which helped support patients on a longer term.

Subsequent fundraising efforts, including one involving the Maanudam team, generated £13,600. Half of the proceeds were allocated to purchasing chemotherapy drugs for Tellipalai Cancer Hospital and the Batticaloa Cancer Society, while the remainder supported the monthly assistance program. Initially assisting 10 upcountry plantation workers diagnosed with cancer, the program rapidly expanded to accommodate around 50 beneficiaries monthly. Realizing the need for external support, arrangements were made for Manitha Neyam UK Charity Trust to assume responsibility for all current patients and to take on the leadership of this project. The team expresses a lot of gratitude to Prof N Sreeharan and Mr TRS Mithiran for securing board approval, and efforts will continue to facilitate the transition to the Manitha Neyam Trust in the foreseeable future.