‘Granny could’ve survived if cancer was detected early’

It would not take much time, but the results may change someone’s life. Cancer diagnosis is not just about an individual as it affects the entire family.”

Meznah Meshar, volunteer rider

What a rough year! This is how 16-year-old Meznah Meshar — one of the horse riders taking part in the ninth edition of the Pink Caravan — described 2016, when her grandmother died of cancer.

The Grade 11 Emirati girl, based in Dubai, told Khaleej

Times that she missed her granny so much. “Everyone in the family misses her,” she said.

“We were all so depressed because of her suffering, particularly when she flew to Singapore for chemotherapy, and developed so many painful side effects.”

After such a harrowing experience, Meznah did her best to get back on her feet so she could help others by raising awareness about the ‘silent killer’.

Meznah is also a passionate horse rider so when she heard about the Pink Caravan, she knew it was the perfect opportunity to do some volunteer work aligned with her newfound advocacy.

“This is actually my first time to take part in the Pink Caravan, but I am all set to take part in all its versions in the future.”

Early diagnosis of cancer can save people’s lives, she said. “My grandmother would have been much luckier if her cancer was detected early. She would have had a better chance of survival.”

Both men and women need to get screened, and they should do it not just for themselves, but for their loved ones as well, Meznah said.

“It would not take much time, but the results may change someone’s life. Cancer diagnosis is not just about an individual as it affects the entire family,” she said, encouraging everyone to stop by the caravan’s clinics for a check-up.