Sri Lanka's cricketers launch cancer appeal

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.

The project, championed by star batsman Mahela Jaywardene and captain Sanath Jayasuriya, and supported by the entire team, who visited the cancer hospital 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 our hearts. We want every Sri Lankan to join the team in this effort. There are thousands of Sri Lankans for whom chances of survival are bleak when faced with cancer. We ask you to give generously, to give HOPE to your fellow country men."

With a total estimated cost of 750 million rupees (USD 8.5 million), the project will be completed in a series of three stages: in the first phase the HOPE hospital will a 450 bed general ward along with an iodine ward and space for two radiotherapy machines; in the second phase there will be two modern diagnostic, treatment and ancillary facilities; and the third phase will include a further 300 beds.

In Sri Lanka it is said that 1 in every 10 deaths are due to cancer. What is ironic is that almost 70% of all cancer patients can be cured if the disease is diagnosed and treated in time. However, for many, treatment is not easily accessible. At present, the Maharagama Hospital cannot meet with the growing demand for treatment with long waiting lists.

Jayawardene knows this all to well having suffered a personal tragedy when his youngest brother died from cancer. "I lost my younger brother to cancer when he was just 16. If our efforts can bring hope of life to those unfortunate, it will be the best tribute to those we love, admire or respect, whom the wretched disease has affected," said Jayawardene.

"The 750-bed cancer hospital will be equipped with the latest facilities and will cater to patients from every section of society. A committee consisting of doctors, consultants and ministry officials will monitor the hospital," he added.

All contributions can be deposited at any of the Seylan Bank Branches and are to be made in the name of the Hope Cancer Hospital. Contributions will be exempted from income tax.