Category: cancer patients

7 October – World Day for Decent Work

World Day for Decent Work was established in 2008 by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) to emphasize everyone’s right to safe, healthy, and dignified working conditions.

It highlights the importance of respect, equality, and social justice in the workplace.

For people living with cancer, work often presents a dilemma: how to balance treatment demands with job responsibilities. Unfortunately, prejudice and lack of awareness can push many patients to the margins.

Access to decent work is not a luxury—it is a right. Support at work, flexible hours, colleague understanding, and elimination of discrimination are crucial steps toward an inclusive society.

Kapa3 supports patients in knowing their rights and advocating for themselves at work. At the same time, we raise awareness about the importance of workplace inclusion.
World Day for Decent Work reminds us that the fight against cancer should never come with social exclusion. A fair society embraces everyone with respect and equal opportunities.

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

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