Sourish Chowdhury in conversation with Subhojit Roy on how Sound ’N’ Mind Foundation is supporting Cancer Warriors
What is the primary focus of Sound ‘N’ Mind Foundation in supporting cancer warriors?
EMOTIONAL CHALLENGES AND THEIR IMPACT FOR THE CANCER WARRIORS
We at Sound ‘N’ Mind Foundation are dedicated to the emotional wellness of cancer warriors. Our holistic approach integrates healing, companionship, counselling, and volunteer training to provide comprehensive support for those battling cancer. We are committed to fostering a nurturing environment and establishing centres that facilitate these vital sessions and training.
To enhance our services, we plan to propagate our services through a dedicated centre where these sessions and training come about. These centres serve as safe haven for cancer warriors, offering a supportive environment for healing, companionship, and guidance. Additionally, they will act as a hub for volunteer training, ensuring a continuous supply of well-prepared individuals ready to support those in need.
We are committed to nurturing the emotional health of cancer fighters, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive during their journey.
How does the MindWell Club benefit cancer warriors beyond just medical treatment?
By fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes empathy andempowerment, we can help cancer warriors transition from survivors tothrivers, finding purpose and joy beyond their battle.
Encouraging activities that bring them joy and a sense of normalcy canimprove their quality of life. Above all, showing empathy, patience, andunwavering support reassures cancer patients that they are not alone intheir journey, fostering strength and hope.
Sound ‘N’ Mind Foundationinnovative approach of “MindWell Club” is not only helping patients with emotional support but also helping them stay connected.
What role do you and your collegues play in helping cancer warriors at Sound ‘N’ Mind Foundation?
Cancer Advocacy:Through education, support,and outreach, we equipindividuals with the knowledgeand tools for their journey andto advocate for their needs.
Initial Days Assistance:The initial days after a cancerdiagnosis are important because they set the foundation for thepatient’s physical, emotional, andtreatment journey and improve thechances of successful treatment andrecovery.
Sound Healing Sessions:Sound healing experiences,including group sound baths,private sound healing sessions,and workshops will help patientsto sail through their journey.
Mindfulness Activities: Mindfulness activitiesare crucialfor cancer warriors to navigatethe emotional and physicalchallenges of their journey.
Vocational Support:Through vocational training andassistance, we want them toexplore their area of interestand help them if they want totake it as their profession.
Why is emotional and companionship care considered crucial for cancer warriors?
Emotional and companionship care is considered crucial for cancer warriors because cancer treatment often involves long, difficult, and emotionally challenging journeys. Here are a few key reasons why this type of care is so vital:
1. Emotional Support: Cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause intense emotional stress, anxiety, and fear. Patients often experience feelings of isolation, uncertainty about their future, and concerns about their identity. Emotional care helps them navigate these emotions, offering comfort and a sense of understanding.
2. Coping with Stress: The physical side effects of cancer and treatment, such as fatigue, pain, and changes in appearance, can be overwhelming. Emotional care helps patients cope with these challenges and provides strategies to manage stress, improving overall well-being.
3. Social Connection: Cancer can make individuals feel disconnected from others, leading to loneliness. Companionship care, whether through family, friends, or support groups, provides a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation.
4. Mental Health: Anxiety and depression are common in cancer patients. Emotional care, which may include counselling, therapy, or support groups, can help mitigate mental health struggles and foster a more positive outlook on life.
5. Quality of Life: The emotional and psychological support from companions can contribute to a better quality of life, helping cancer warriors find joy in their day-to-day activities and maintain a sense of normalcy.
6. Encouragement and Motivation: A strong emotional support system can provide encouragement during difficult times. Companions offer motivation to stick with treatment plans and keep fighting, reminding cancer warriors of their inner strength and resilience.
7. Holistic Healing: Treating cancer isn’t just about physical recovery. Emotional and mental health plays an integral role in the healing process. Positive emotional well-being has been shown to improve immune function and enhance the effectiveness of medical treatments.
In short, emotional and companionship care supports not just the body but also the spirit, helping cancer warriors face their challenges with courage and resilience.
How does the foundation support cancer warriors in terms of vocational training and financial independence?
Vocational Training and Education:
- Skills Development Programs: We partner with local organizations or offer their own programs that help cancer warriors acquire new job skills, such as emotional companions, computer hardware training, project management, or specific trades (e.g., culinary arts, etc).
- Job Readiness Training: This includes resume-building workshops, interview coaching, and soft skills training to improve confidence and prepare individuals for re-entry into the workforce.
