08/06/2026
THREADS OF TRIUMPH: SURVIVORS CELEBRATE LIFE AFTER CANCER
The Pulse Zw
Cancer survivors have been challenged to transform their personal battles into sources of hope and advocacy for others still fighting the disease, as Zimbabwe's cancer community gathered for the "Threads of Triumph" Survivors Dinner hosted by CancerServe Trust in Harare.
The event, held in Goodhope, brought together cancer survivors, caregivers, medical professionals and corporate partners in a celebration of resilience and recovery, while also highlighting the ongoing need for support for cancer patients across the country.
Speaking at the event, CancerServe Trust patron Dr Anna Mary Nyakabau said survivors represented living proof that cancer could be overcome and should serve as a source of encouragement for newly diagnosed patients.
"Tonight we celebrate one word: triumph. Not because the road was easy, but because you walked it with resilience to defeat cancer," said Nyakabau.
"You chose hope when fear was loud. You showed up for treatment, for your families and for yourself. Today we celebrate that."
Using the event's theme, "Threads of Triumph," Nyakabau said each survivor's journey formed part of a larger tapestry of strength and support.
"One thread looks fragile on its own. But woven together, threads become something strong and beautiful. That's us. Your story is a thread. My story is another. Together, we form a fabric of resilience," she said.
The emotional highlight of the evening came when long-time cancer survivor Petronella Tshatedi, who has lived with cancer for more than three decades, shared her journey and was unveiled as a CancerServe Trust ambassador.
Standing before fellow survivors, Tshatedi described survival as far more than completing treatment.
"Survival is not just about getting through treatment. It is about navigating fear, uncertainty, pain, exhaustion and moments where you wonder if life will ever feel normal again," she said.
"It is about learning to smile again, to hope again, to trust again and to believe again."
Tshatedi said cancer survivors carry stories that can inspire others facing the disease.
"The beautiful thing about survivors is this – we do not just survive for ourselves. Our stories become light for somebody else who is still walking through darkness," she said.
She paid tribute to caregivers, family members and health professionals who supported patients throughout their treatment journeys, singling out friends and supporters who accompanied her to chemotherapy sessions and stood by her during difficult periods.
The dinner also recognised the contribution of caregivers and frontline health workers who continue to support cancer patients across Zimbabwe.
Nyakabau urged society to remember the human stories behind cancer statistics.
"We must never forget that behind every statistic is a person – a father, mother, brother or child – and behind every person is a story of resilience and quiet strength," she said.
The event was made possible through the support of anchor sponsor National Building Society, alongside corporate partners including DICOMM Marketing.
CancerServe Trust has been at the forefront of cancer awareness, patient support and advocacy efforts in Zimbabwe, working to improve access to information and strengthen support networks for cancer patients and survivors.
For many in attendance, however, the evening was less about illness and more about victory — a reminder that beyond every diagnosis lies the possibility of hope, healing and triumph.