Humaid Al-Shamsi, CEO of Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI) Comprehensive Cancer Center, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“16th Day of Ramadan
I still remember the patient in this photo. He passed away from cancer.
He was one of the most pleasant and optimistic patients I have ever cared for. Throughout his entire journey, I cannot recall a single moment when he complained. He faced every stage of his illness with grace, dignity, and quiet strength.
In oncology, we often hear expressions like ‘fighting cancer’, ‘warriors’, or ‘losing the battle’. Personally, I have never been comfortable with these metaphors.
When a patient dies from cancer, does that mean they ‘lost’?
I don’t believe so.
Patients who live with cancer for months or years are not losers. They are individuals who endure pain, uncertainty, and challenges that few people will ever truly understand. Their courage and resilience deserve recognition and respect.
Cancer is not a battle they chose. It is a journey they were forced to walk.
And every patient who faces that journey with dignity has already shown extraordinary strength.
Let’s change the narrative.”
Other articles featuring Humaid Al-Shamsi on OncoDaily.