CANCER should not be fought alone, says Fiji Cancer Society Western Branch president Milika Marshall.

While marking World Cancer Day in Lautoka yesterday, she said the disease had claimed many precious lives, causing heartache and loss for many more.

World Cancer Day is observed internationally on February 4.

“This is not something that should be suffered alone by the person who has cancer, but rather a community effort where we show our support for them. Cancer can be beaten with the right treatment and with the right education for our community,” she said.

“We want people living with cancer to know that they are not alone in this fight, and there are people who are willing to help and support them through this disease.”

While joining the global celebration, members of the Fiji Cancer Society Western Branch remembered those who had died with a candlelight vigil.

“We want to light a candle for each person that we have lost over the years to cancer.

“Whether it be a family member, a relative, a friend or a colleague, this disease has the power to cause so much pain to an individual and to their loved ones.

“So it was only fitting for us to light a candle for each of them and to remember their struggle and fight with this disease,” she said.

She said this was the second time the group had joined the International Cancer Federation’s World Cancer Day event.

“The theme this year is ‘We Can, I Can’ which ties in well with the Fiji Cancer Society’s own message of fighting alongside the people living with cancer.

“We know that Fiji is a country that has a long history with cancer.

“This event marks the beginning of another year of awareness and education for our community.”