k3-editor, Author at K3 - Page 18 of 23

World Animal Day: The Healing Presence of Animals

World Animal Day reminds us that we share the planet with all living beings.

Animals are not just companions in our lives; they are an essential part of the balance of nature and our daily world. For many patients, having a pet provides comfort, affection, and a unique bond that eases life’s challenges.

The idea of World Animal Day began in 1925 with Heinrich Zimmermann, who organized the first celebration in Berlin. By 1931, October 4th became officially recognized as a day for all animals. The date is also connected to the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, symbolizing care and respect for all creatures.

For those fighting cancer, the presence of an animal can be therapeutic. Pet companionship reduces anxiety, brings smiles, and strengthens emotional resilience. Many hospitals abroad use “pet therapy” programs where interaction with animals helps patients feel less alone and more empowered.

At the Kapa3 Cancer Guidance Center, we understand that patient care goes beyond treatment. Mental and emotional well-being is equally important. The power of love—even from a cat or dog—reminds us that no one should walk the path of cancer alone.

World Animal Day calls us to respect all creatures and remember that kindness and affection, wherever we find them, are forms of healing.

You can read more here:

https://nationaltoday.com/world-animal-day/

About Us

When Violence Meets Burnout: What Turkish Doctors and Nurses Reveal

The study, published in International Nursing Review (2025), examines the impact of violence perpetrated by patients and visitors against healthcare professionals in Türkiye. It was conducted by researchers from Izmir Tinaztepe University, Tekirdag Namik Kemal University, and Izmir University of Economics.

A total of 387 physicians and nurses participated, with the aim of assessing how workplace violence influences burnout and whether fear of future violence acts as a mediating factor. In this context, violence can manifest verbally (shouting, threats, insults), physically (pushing, hitting, even more severe incidents), or psychologically (intimidation, pressure).

Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the researchers analyzed the effects of violence on emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment.

Key findings of the study include:

Violence increases burnout: Exposure to violence significantly heightens emotional exhaustion and depersonalization.
Unexpected resilience: In some cases, exposure reduces diminished personal accomplishment, suggesting identity reinforcement or coping mechanisms.
Fear of future violence: While not strongly linked to exhaustion or depersonalization, it lowers feelings of accomplishment.
Profession-specific differences: Nurses report far higher levels of direct violence, exhaustion, and depersonalization, while physicians show greater fear of future violence but stronger accomplishment.
Policy–practice gap: Despite existing legislation in Türkiye, healthcare staff feel insufficiently supported.
Cultural factors: Normalization of violence, patriarchal norms, and stigma affect both experiences and reporting.
Solutions: Organizational support, violence-prevention training, and simulation-based programs reduce fear and burnout, while structural reforms (e.g., shorter waiting times) help alleviate patient frustration.

A Call for Change:
Workplace violence is a serious occupational hazard for healthcare workers. It leads to emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced accomplishment, with varying intensity across professions. Addressing it requires not only laws but also meaningful organizational, cultural, and systemic interventions to protect professionals and improve patient care.

Kapa3 participation in the MELODIC consortium meeting in Lisbon

We are delighted to announce that Kapa3 had the opportunity to take part in the recent MELODIC consortium meeting, which was held in Lisbon. Although our participation was online, it was in real time, and our team contributed actively to the discussions, which focused on the development of the training program for healthcare professionals and the design of the intervention study, both aiming to support the mental health of young adults living with cancer.

The MELODIC project, funded by the EU4HEALTH program with a total budget of €1.8 million, addresses a critical yet often overlooked issue: the mental health of young adults aged 18–35 living with cancer.

During the meeting, partners exchanged experiences and findings from European research and interviews with healthcare professionals, families, and young adults with cancer. These insights strengthened collaboration and the formulation of strategies for timely psychosocial support.

Next spring, the project will launch the intervention phase, focusing on social prescribing and the use of green and blue spaces—harnessing the power of nature and community to promote well-being.

Kapa3 continues to work closely with its European partners to ensure a meaningful impact on the lives of young adults facing cancer.

Mount Athos: The Hidden Link Between Spirituality and Health

Mount Athos: The Hidden Link Between Spirituality and Health

In northern Greece, perched on steep cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea, lies the Holy Monastery of Simonos Petra — one of the twenty monasteries that make up Mount Athos. For more than a thousand years, the monks of the Holy Mountain have lived a simple life of prayer, devoted to their goal of drawing closer to God.

Longevity and Health

Simonos Petra reflects the same spiritual and physical discipline found throughout Mount Athos, where life and health are closely intertwined with faith. Despite a population of around 2,000 monks, there is only one doctor on the Holy Mountain — and rarely needed. Studies have shown that the monks exhibit remarkably low rates of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s. In a thirteen-year study of 1,500 monks, not a single case of lung or colon cancer was recorded, while prostate cancer incidence was far below the international average.

Their good health is attributed to a Mediterranean, meat-free diet rich in olive oil and plant proteins, strict adherence to regular meal times, and a labor-intensive, self-sufficient lifestyle: cultivating the land, gathering fruits, maintaining the facilities, and working hard to sustain their daily needs.

The Spiritual Dimension

Beyond diet and lifestyle, the monks themselves believe their health is connected to something deeper: their mystical relationship with God. As Father Maximos says, “You cannot know. It is a mystery that the human mind will never unlock. The only certainty is that spiritual laws are at work. How they operate, only God knows.”

Modern scientific studies suggest that faith and spirituality can strengthen the immune system and reduce the impact of stress on physical health. When religious practice is accompanied by sincere intention and an authentic relationship with the Divine, it can bring deeper peace, resilience, and ultimately, better health.

A Lesson for the Modern World

The example of the monks of Mount Athos shows that health is not only a matter of diet and exercise but also of spiritual balance. In a world full of stress, cultivating inner peace and committing to values such as patience, compassion, and humility may be the most powerful “medicine” for both body and soul.

Source: Article by Elaine Claire Siegfried here

When Strength Emerges from Adversity

When Strength Emerges from Adversity
Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth in People Affected by Cancer

When we talk about the psychological state of a cancer patient, the words that usually come to mind are heavy ones: shock, pain, loss, depression. For many years, research focused mainly on the negative consequences of trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In recent decades, however, scientists and psychologists have started to recognize another, less familiar but equally important reality: out of pain, something positive can also emerge. Some people don’t just “bounce back” from adversity — they undergo profound change, discovering new meaning in life and strengthening their relationships. This process is called Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG).

What is Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) in Cancer Survivors?

Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) refers to the positive psychological changes that can emerge after facing traumatic experiences such as cancer. Instead of remaining “stuck” in the trauma, survivors may develop greater resilience, a renewed sense of purpose, and deeper connections with others.

Key Findings

Psychological Factors

Emotional Regulation: The ability to manage emotions is linked to higher PTG.
Sense of Purpose: Discovering or renewing life’s meaning strengthens growth.
Self-Esteem: A healthy self-image supports positive change.

Predictive Factors

Social Support: Strong relationships foster recovery and growth.
Spirituality: Personal beliefs can act as a protective factor.
Coping Strategies: Healthy ways of dealing with challenges (like positive reframing) promote PTG.

Helpful Interventions

Psychological Support: Therapies that focus on PTG show promising results.
Support Groups: Sharing experiences with others can enhance recovery.
Educational Programs: Learning tools for resilience empowers survivors.

At the end of the day, every cancer journey is unique — but for many, pain can also give rise to an unexpected new strength. PTG does not erase sorrow or struggle; it simply shows that alongside trauma, something meaningful can take root and carry life forward. And it is exactly this understanding of PTG that gives us yet another reason to stand by people with cancer through their difficult path — with respect, patience, and genuine presence.

Read the full article here

The new OECD report (2025) highlights Greece’s challenges and priorities in cancer

The new OECD report (2025) highlights Greece’s challenges and priorities in cancer, comparing them with other European countries.

Key points:

Increased incidence: Greece records ~67,000 new cancer diagnoses and ~36,000 deaths annually (2022 data). By 2050, cases are expected to increase by 36%.
Risk factors: Smoking, obesity, poor diet, air pollution, low HPV vaccination coverage.
Early diagnosis: There are programs for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer, but they are not yet sufficiently developed or sustainable beyond 2025.
Inequalities in care: Staff shortages, geographical inequalities, high out-of-pocket costs, difficulties in access for vulnerable groups.
Survivors & caregivers: There is no organized strategy for the quality of life of survivors, while caregivers are overburdened. The “right to be forgotten” does not yet apply in Greece.
Data & policy: Until recently, there was no national cancer registry. Greece does not yet have a comprehensive National Cancer Plan, unlike many other European countries.

Conclusion:
Greece is called upon to:

– strengthen prevention and population-based screening,

– reduce inequalities in access,

– support survivors and caregivers,

– and develop a holistic national cancer plan with clear targets and evaluation.

The report clearly shows that the country needs greater investment, better organization, and integration of actions into European planning.

See the report in detail here 22087cfa-en (1)

The main points are given in the file below by the Kapa3 team. OOSA 2025 REPORT

Palliative Care in Cancer: Ensuring Quality of Life Alongside Treatment

Palliative Care in Cancer: Ensuring Quality of Life Alongside Treatment

The editorial underlines the vital role of palliative care in cancer management. While advances in oncology have improved survival, many patients still face significant physical, emotional, and social challenges. Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and anxiety, while also supporting families and caregivers.

Research shows that early integration of palliative care improves patients’ quality of life, helps them tolerate demanding treatments, and even extends survival in some cases. It also facilitates better communication between patients and healthcare providers and reduces unnecessary hospitalizations and costs.

Despite this evidence, palliative care remains underused, often mistaken for end-of-life care only. In Greece, until recently it was not formally part of the National Health System, and existing services remain limited. However, the 2022 legal framework and the position paper of the Hellenic Society of Medical Oncology stress the urgent need for wider integration, more training for oncologists, and stronger policy support.

Ultimately, oncology success should not be measured only in survival rates but also in ensuring dignity, comfort, and holistic support for patients throughout their journey.

Melodic, A New European Project Supporting the Mental Health of Young Adults with Cancer

At Kapa3, we know that healing goes far beyond the body. A cancer diagnosis in young
adulthood — just as life is beginning to unfold — often leaves deep emotional marks. That’s
why we’re proud to participate in MELODIC, a new European initiative dedicated to
supporting the mental health of young adults (18–30) living with or after cancer.

The project Melodic brings together 13 partners from 6 European countries, including patient organizations, universities, and healthcare experts. Coordinated by Turku University of Applied Sciences (Finland), MELODIC aims to co-design innovative digital tools, peer
support models, and educational workshops that reflect the actual needs and voices of
young people affected by cancer.

Kapa3 joined the project in 2024, and our role is to bring Greek patients’ perspectives to
the table while also ensuring that everything we co-create reaches the people who need it
most — especially here in Greece.

We believe that mental well-being is not a luxury, but a vital part of cancer care. Over the next two years, we’ll be working closely with survivors, caregivers, professionals, and youth groups to build safe spaces for expression, support, and growth.

Want to learn more? Visit our website and check out the new MELODIC subpage to see how
we’re working to make a difference — and how you can get involved.

Together, we can make mental health care more humane, inclusive, and empowering.
Because no one should face cancer — or life after it — alone.

Read more on Melodic project: Melodic Project Mental Health on YAC

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awards 2025: GOLD Award for Kapa3’s Digital Support Platform for Cancer Patients and Caregivers

Kapa3 has been awarded the GOLD Award at the 2025 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awards for its innovative Digital Support Platform for Cancer Patients and Caregivers – CANCER CARE CONNECT by KAPA3. This recognition highlights Kapa3’s commitment to equality, accessibility, and high-quality support for patients and caregivers across Greece.

In a wonderful atmosphere, on Tuesday, July 15, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awards 2025 ceremony took place at Anais Club.

The Digital Support Platform for Cancer Patients and Caregivers – CANCER CARE CONNECT by KAPA3 received the GOLD Award in Category 3.9: Socio-economic Assistance / Benefits.

Our targeted intervention in supporting cancer patients, which has acted as a catalyst for meaningful and lasting social change, received first prize for its operational framework—equality, human dignity, accessibility, and inclusion. At the same time, our commitment to valid and timely information and guidance, as well as the reliability of our work within a dynamic organizational framework, was widely recognized, demonstrating the social impact we have achieved through both qualitative and quantitative indicators.

The comprehensive digital information and support platform for cancer patients and caregivers, www.kapa3.gr, focuses on the socio-economic and psychological dimensions of care. It provides multilingual access to rights, benefits, health services, and more than 3,000 continuously updated articles. Through automated tools, databases, and a Q&A knowledge library, it actively empowers vulnerable groups, promoting equality and inclusion in practice.

The Kapa3 Cancer Guidance Center transforms information into strength and technology into an act of social care, with interdisciplinary teams operating across Greece forming the cornerstone of its work.

✅ Key Project Highlights of Cancer Care Connect by KAPA3 Evaluated by the Jury

Digital Support Platform:
Integrates information services, psychosocial support, and guidance for cancer patients and caregivers. Provides access to reliable sources, support groups, and self-management tools.

Ensuring Equal Access:
Free and open nationwide, especially for remote and socially vulnerable populations. Includes multilingual content and accessible design (WCAG-compliant).

Empowerment of Caregivers & Families:
Specialized support for caregivers, who often remain invisible within the healthcare system. Combines human and digital care through live chat, helplines, and online support groups.

Innovation in Health & Society:
Aligned with digital health trends and embedded in personalized support strategies.

Health Equity:
No discrimination based on gender, age, place of residence, or socio-economic status.

Inclusion & Diversity:
Supports cancer patients with diverse needs (chronic conditions, rare cancers), caregivers, and vulnerable groups.

Community Resilience:
Strengthening social bonds and solidarity through support networks.

Reducing Information Inequalities:
Access to reliable, understandable, and scientifically validated information for all.

Human-Centered Digital Transformation:
Technology that serves human needs, not just processes.

Sustainable Support Model:
Integration into the broader health and social care ecosystem.

Reduction of Healthcare & Care Costs:
Free digital services reducing expenses related to travel, private care, and access to specialized information.

Empowering Families & Caregivers:
Tools and guidance for better resource management, minimizing financial burdens.

Improved Productivity & Workforce Reintegration:
Support for patients and caregivers to balance treatment and work, facilitating return to employment.

Reducing Access Inequalities:
Digital access for patients in remote or low-income areas without the need for physical presence.

Psychosocial Resilience → Economic Stability:
Psychological support helps prevent secondary effects such as unemployment and family financial collapse.

We sincerely thank the Evaluation Committee, our supporters, and our partners.

We extend our special thanks to each and every beneficiary—because their thoughts and experiences have been our true source of innovation.

The recognition of our work gives us strength, renewed passion, and inspiration to continue developing inclusive, innovative ideas and to provide meaningful answers and solutions to today’s complex challenges of equality.

With appreciation,

On behalf of the Board of Directors, employees, partners, volunteers, and supporters

Evangelia Bista – Co-founder, Kapa3
Head of Development & Operations, Kapa3

Kapa3 Awarded GOLD at the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awards 2025

Translation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

“Kapa3–University Research Lab Collaboration Honored at the Bravo Sustainability Dialogue & Awards 2024”

The University Research Laboratory “Care of Adult Cancer Patients” of the Department of Nursing at the International Hellenic University (IHU), in collaboration with Kapa3, was honored at the Bravo Sustainability Dialogue & Awards 2024 for its contribution to supporting oncology patients and their families.

The award ceremony took place on December 2, 2024, at the Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation, under the auspices of the Quality Net Foundation. The award was received by Maria Lavdaniti, Director of the Laboratory, together with Evangelia Bista, Development Manager of Kapa3.

The initiative was recognized under the Society pillar, specifically within the thematic category “Quality of Life & Volunteering Actions”, highlighting the importance of academic outreach, as well as the training and hands-on engagement of final-year students and graduates in real-world settings.

Kapa3 played a key role in the development and promotion of the initiative, placing strong emphasis on strengthening social innovation in the health sector. Its core objective was to improve the quality of life of patients and their families through meaningful, community-focused interventions.

The Quality Net Foundation, a non-profit organization promoting sustainable development in Greece since 1997, through the Bravo Sustainability Dialogue & Awards institution, showcases initiatives that support a sustainable future, in collaboration with organizations, businesses, local authorities, and civil society.

The Kapa3 team would like to warmly thank the International Hellenic University for the collaboration and the Quality Net Foundation for recognizing this important initiative, which reaffirms our commitment to developing innovative solutions that promote sustainability and social cohesion.

View photo material from the event

With kind regards,
On behalf of the entire Kapa3 team

Translation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3