On the occasion of World Cancer Day, Monroe Hotel held a celebration under the theme 'Connecting for Global Impact on February 4.

The event was under the patronage and the presence of his Excellency, Minister of Environment Nazem El Khoury and in the presence of the president of the Lebanese order of physicians Dr Charaf Abou Charaf among many other supporters.

The event officially launched a nationwide competition for the best poster that promotes 'a healthy environment and a balanced lifestyle for a cancer free world' and awareness brochures on brain tumours.

After Nazem El-Khoury's speech concerning the dramatic effect of the environment on our health, Dr Roula Farah, CHANCE (CHildren AgaiNst CancEr) President presented CHANCE’s goals and achievements and the support provided to children with cancer over the past ten years.

She explained that two out of three cancers are related to the environment and these are the cancers that we could prevent by choosing a healthy lifestyle and habits, good nutrition and avoiding first and second-hand smoking. 

Dr Farah thanked all sponsors and contributors who made this event possible such as Arab Bank and her PDG Nadim Ghantous, who gave his full support to this project and will be offering prizes for the winning posters which will be used for a nationwide anti-cancer awareness campaign in the media all over the country. 

This was followed by a very touching live performance by Melodie Al Bassar, a child undergoing treatment for leukemia who sang the song, 'Love Life' in Arabic composed by her parents who are both musicians, an amazing dance show 'Earth and Health' by Gabriella El Murr along with a fashion show with tips for healthy living inspired by the theme by Ghada Kazan and ESMOD students. 

The event was presented eloquently by Miss Bruna Tohmé. All this ended with a cocktail reception graciously offered by Fleuron de Fadel. Miss Lebanon Yara Khoury-Mikhael offered presents to the children with cancer who attended the event with their families bringing a touch of happiness to their hearts.