Miriam Mutebi, Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“This weekend, I received two messages that reminded me exactly why we do this work.
The first was from a patient nearing the end of intensive treatment.
She called to reflect on her journey, how challenging it had been, but also how it became an opportunity for growth. In the midst of everything she’d endured, she had the grace to say:
‘Thank you for making this journey worthwhile.’
I was humbled. As cancer doctors, we’re always in awe of our patients. Their grace in adversity, groundedness in the moment, and ability to hold fear and joy simultaneously. We have the privilege of walking those journeys together; a MayaAngelou moment: Still we rise.
The second message was from a patient returning to work.
She had practical questions, about products she could use and resuming her normal routines. The specifics didn’t matter as much as what they represented: she was reclaiming her identity, stepping back into her life with pragmatism, optimism, and joy. That’s what completion looks like: finishing treatment and returning to yourself.
These two women reminded me: cancer control isn’t just about plans, protocols, and policies, though we desperately need those. It’s about people, hope, and creating systems that allow women like these to thrive and return to the lives they love.
There’s a growing consciousness across Africa around the need for robust cancer control plans and their implementation. That consciousness matters. But so does remembering that every plan, policy, and intervention exists for moments like these, when a patient completes treatment with grace and when another walks back into her workplace with confidence.
It takes a spark. 25 years ago, one person’s vision in Botswana grew into a mutually respectful and collaborative partnership with the local teams and University of Pennsylvania, and other partners. Initially focused on infectious diseases, this BUP alliance is now helping to change the face of oncology in the region. One spark. Amplified over time into something transformative.
Last week on World Cancer Day, we asked people to reflect on what makes us ‘United by Unique.’ I ask you a different but similar question: What is one unique thing you’re committing to in the cancer control agenda? What will you do to bring your unique skills to the table and help us rise, together?
Photo for effect: Moon rising over Gaborone.”
More posts featuring Miriam Mutebi.