"Together we can do it"

After I graduated with a a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, I was ready to hit the job market and landed my first job with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1988. The following year, my life took a sharp turn. I was diagnosed with cancer of the lymphnodes stage 2B otherwise known as Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Between April 1989 and May 1990 I underwent a brutal regimen of chemotherapy, two lumber punctures, a liver biopsy, had my spleen removed and underwent radiation. I received most of my treatment in what was then the Federal Republic of Germany, as at the time, Zambia did not have a cancer hospital. I have been cancer free for over 21 years.

In 2006, I became the first Zambian to receive a scholarship from the American Cancer Society to attend the American Cancer Society University. I was proud to represent my country amongst more than 5000 participants from all over the world at the World Cancer Congress held in Washington D.C. that same year.

In 2007, I founded the Zambian Cancer Society initially as an online resource. We relaunched in 2009, extending our information and support services into the local communities. I am honored to say that through the Zambian Cancer Society, Zambia held its first Relay For Life event from October 1 to 2, 2011. Through Relay, we are giving a powerful voice to cancer survivors.

My story is not really about me. It is a call to action to motivate Zambians in particular, to rise above cancer and its challenges. Together we can do it.