Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH&RC), Lahore hosted the second fund-raising iftar dinner in the city on previous day, sponsored by the donors and well-wishers of the Hospital. The event, a beautiful example of the generous hearts of the people of Pakistan, was attended by Mr. Imran Khan, Chairman Board of Governors of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust, and people from different walks of life.
The guests were welcomed by ushers who greeted them with a warm smile and guided them to suitable tables. Ayesha Sana began the program by announcing that this event was dedicated to Amjad Sabri, who was a great supporter of SKMCH&RC. The program commenced with the recitation of Holy Quran, followed by a few words from Dr. Faisal, the CEO of SKMCH&RC. Dr. Faisal informed the audience about the Hospital’s project updates. He also shared an update about the previous SKMCH&RC Zakat campaign patient faces—it was heartwarming to see them older and doing well.
This year, the Hospital’s budget is Rs 8.7 billion and Rs 4.5 billion is expected to be raised via zakat and donations. As Imran Khan stepped on the stage, a queue of donors had already formed and noticing this, he remarked, “I had to convince you to donate but you are already ready!” The queue was very long; people were patient and stood with discipline—just to personally give their donations to the man who dreams of the impossible and makes it possible. The happenings on the stage were the most touching. There were two young boys who gave their money-boxes to Khan. There was an old lady who came on a wheelchair to hand Khan the money herself.
There was a real display of dedication and passion for a cause. There was a steady stream of donors on the stage. Khan stood there, smiling, shaking hands with each person individually, without any sign of tiredness or impatience.
At the end, with the final announcement of a donation from an anonymous donor, the fund-meter crossed its target once again, reaching the Rs. 12croremark. This was achieved with the help of individuals; some known, others anonymous, but all possessing beautiful generous hearts. The people of Pakistan do not hesitate to give—they open up their hearts for a cause if they trust it; if they can see their money being spent on more patients each year; if they can see patients who are still here with us and smiling, after many years of completion of their treatment. Event sponsors were Allied Bank, Mobilink, Telenor, Warid, MCB Bank, and Subway.
