In response to the escalating cancer crisis in Kerala, Caritas India, through its Ashakiranam Cancer Care Campaign, took a pioneering step in 2014. Focused on comprehensive solutions, Caritas India collaborated with 32 Diocesan Social Service Societies partners in Kerala to address not only the treatment but also the prevention of cancer. At the heart of this transformative journey is the Ashakiranam campaign, which has become a symbol of hope for those facing the challenges of cancer.

Caritas India’s Ashakiranam Cancer Care Campaign goes beyond traditional approaches. Massive awareness initiatives, organic food and farming promotion programs, and early cancer detection camps stand as pillars of a symphony dedicated to prevention. This campaign has become a catalyst for a healthier and more resilient future, actively engaging communities across Kerala.

Within the Ashakiranam Cancer Care Campaign, Ashadeepam emerges as a proactive healthcare initiative specifically designed to combat breast cancer in the Ernakulam district. Crafted meticulously by the social service wing of the Archdiocese of Ernakulam and Angamaly, WSE (Welfare Service Ernakulam), Ashadeepam is more than a health intervention; it is a symphony of empowerment and enlightenment.  Launched on World Cancer Day in 2024, Ashadeepam unfolds as a year-long crusade, combining medical expertise, community engagement, and awareness initiatives.

The inaugural chapter of Ashadeepam reflects community support and leadership. Mr. Manoj Moothedan, the District Panchayat President, illuminated the campaign’s journey, emphasizing its significance beyond a mere screening initiative. The Vicar, Fr. Kuriakose Eravimangalam, infused the event with divine grace, while Fr. Jose Koluthvellil articulated the vision, igniting awareness and empowerment among attendees.

Ashadeepam’s success lies in meticulous planning and community engagement. With five screening camps conducted across carefully selected villages, the campaign reflects the dedication of Ashakiranam volunteers and the collaborative spirit of the community. Extensive groundwork, field-level interactions, and strategic social media campaigns ensure effective engagement and information dissemination.
The screening day is not just about physical examinations; it’s a session led by health experts, imparting knowledge on prevention, lifestyle tips, and self-examination techniques. Participants leave armed with knowledge, resilience, and a renewed commitment to their well-being. Ms. Marykutty Joseph, after the examination, expresses gratitude for the initiative, emphasizing its role in illuminating a path of self-care and vigilance.

The success of Ashadeepam is not merely in the number of screenings conducted but in the lives touched and transformed. Mr. Basil, the Ashakiranam DLO of the DSSS, notes that the joy lies in the radiant aftermath of the campaign—a luminous tapestry of hope and empowerment. The campaign has not only shed light on breast health but has also illuminated the hearts of women across villages.

As Ashadeepam’s journey continues, it embarks on a collective mission to dispel the shadows of uncertainty, nurturing communities with the light of awareness and a steadfast belief that together, it can triumph over the challenges posed by breast cancer. The success and impact of Ashadeepam inspire a promise for the future, where more camps will be conducted, sharing the good news of health and empowerment. This collective mission aims to illuminate the path to a future free from the shadows of breast cancer, fostering a community empowered with knowledge, resilience, and shared commitment to well-being.