Hoffman-Laroche contest to encourage cancer patients to express their feelings through art

Mr. Amman Lutfi, head of Hoffman Laroche Lebanon and Jordan operations said: "Receiving the news about having Cancer can cause a serious psychological shock. Many patients say they can't find the words to express their feelings. It has however been scientifically proved that art is an excellent way to allow patients to express their feelings and at the same time relax and forget their pain."

The theme of 'CREATE' revolves around expressing the feelings associated with pain. All Cancer patients are eligible to participate in the CREATE contest even if they have overcome Cancer provided they were above 16 years of age.

Mr. Lutfi said: "In the past, Cancer used to instigate a lot of fear especially that it is associated with death. However, today, the advancement in Cancer medication has allowed many to overcome their illness and enjoy a long, better life and also helped them make lots of achievements, especially in the art field."

To participate in this contest, those wishing to participate should send a clear photo of the art work they produced to the Roche office in their respective countries, as well as a letter containing personal information such as first name and sir name, phone number, email as well as a small paragraph explaining the art work and their experience while preparing it.

The contest will be launched in several Arab countries including: Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Closing date for submitting the art work is November 30.

The best artwork will receive a local prize in addition to entering the regional contest to be held in Dubai. Committees comprising of Cancer patients support groups as well as celebrities will be formed to judge the artwork. More information can be obtained from flyers that will be distributed in cancer treatment hospitals and clinics.