da heads bet： Sri Lanka’s cricketers have launched a nationwide fundraising campaign -project HOPE – in an effort to build a new 750-bed cancer unit at Sri Lanka’s only dedicated Cancer Hospital at Maharagama
CricInfo21-Mar-2002Sri Lanka’s cricketers have launched a nationwide fundraising campaign -project HOPE – in an effort to build a new 750-bed cancer unit at Sri Lanka’s only dedicated Cancer Hospital at Maharagama.The project, championed by star batsman Mahela Jaywardene and captain SanathJayasuriya, and supported by the entire team, who visited the cancerhospital on Wednesday, is a joint venture between the Sri Lankan Cricketers’Association (SCA) and the Lions Club of Somerset district Colombo.Speaking at the project launch, Jayasuriya said: “We are in this with ourhearts. We want every Sri Lankan to join the team in this effort. There arethousands of Sri Lankans for whom chances of survival are bleak when facedwith cancer. We ask you to give generously, to give HOPE to your fellowcountry men.”With a total estimated cost of 750 million rupees (USD 8.5 million), theproject will be completed in a series of three stages: in the first phasethe HOPE hospital will a 450 bed general ward along with an iodine ward andspace for two radiotherapy machines; in the second phase there will be twomodern diagnostic, treatment and ancillary facilities; and the third phasewill include a further 300 beds.In Sri Lanka it is said that 1 in every 10 deaths are due to cancer. What isironic is that almost 70% of all cancer patients can be cured if the diseaseis diagnosed and treated in time. However, for many, treatment is not easilyaccessible. At present, the Maharagama Hospital cannot meet with the growingdemand for treatment with long waiting lists.Jayawardene knows this all to well having suffered a personal tragedy whenhis youngest brother died from cancer. “I lost my younger brother to cancerwhen he was just 16. If our efforts can bring hope of life to thoseunfortunate, it will be the best tribute to those we love, admire orrespect, whom the wretched disease has affected,” said Jayawardene.”The 750-bed cancer hospital will be equipped with the latest facilities andwill cater to patients from every section of society. A committee consistingof doctors, consultants and ministry officials will monitor the hospital,”he added.All contributions can be deposited at any of the Seylan Bank Branches andare to be made in the name of the Hope Cancer Hospital. Contributions willbe exempted from income tax.Sri Lankan expatriates wishing to make donations to such a worthy cause canalso contribute.
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