By Ma. Sheika Rafa Panopio
On October 7, 2025, Far Eastern Pvt. School Al Shahba united in solidarity and education for Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
October is here, entering with a powerful reminder that some battles are fought not only in silence but also in shared strength. Everyone participated by dressing in the color of hope and support, sending a visual statement about the importance of early detection, support, and education in the fight against this disease.
The program began with the officers of the Supreme Student Government (SSG) offering their key insights into breast cancer and its nature. The officers discussed the historical origins of Breast Cancer Awareness Day, the profound meaning of the pink ribbon, and highlighted global and local UAE organizations that offer vital help.
This was shortly followed by uplifting literary works from each of the language departments, presented by representatives. From the English Club, Aleiah Yzabelle Mitra recited a poem titled “A Testament of Grace: Surviving Breast Cancer with Faith.” Emmanuelle Del Rosario delivered a poem from the Filipino Club titled “Tula Para sa mga Lumalaban sa Kanser sa Suso,” and finally, the Arabic Club representative, Vaniya Khan, presented a heartfelt work titled “صعوبات سرطان ,” which means “Hardships of Breast Cancer.”
To increase knowledge amongst the students, the school’s doctor explained the major risks of breast cancer as well as risk factors contributing to the illness, categorizing them into two major groups: “modifiable” and “non-modifiable.” The school nurse took the stage, explaining key ways to lessen the risk of illness through self-checks and lifestyle changes.
Real stories began to unfold, with Arianna Chevelle Castro bravely sharing her mom’s experience with breast cancer. She spoke honestly about the sadness she initially felt and her eventual realization that strength came from faith and action. When her mom lost her hair because of the chemotherapy, Arianna cut her own hair in solidarity to make her mom feel more comfortable.
She also explained the crucial role of a caregiver, sharing how she and her dad would often have to remind her mom to eat after she began losing her appetite due to the medicine’s effects. Though getting up before dawn for hospital visits was tiresome, Arianna affirmed it was “worth it,” showcasing the true meaning of support.
With that, the moving program came to a close. As students returned to their respective classrooms, their pink attire and pink ribbons only served as a reminder of the day’s importance. To all FEPSians, teachers, and staff. The pink clothes were a great statement, but the action has to continue.
Be informed, be supportive, and talk openly about health.
Photos by Zoe Mae Duque and Camila Katy Margaret Navato