Two Bahraini nurses are being sponsored for a Master’s programme and will specialise in breast cancer-related topics for their theses, shining a bright spotlight on the community’s commitment towards the cause.
Zahraa Murdhi and Isa Alabbadi, both aged 26, started their two-year course last month at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Bahrain (RCSI). Their education is being fully paid for using a part of the funds raised from the Think Pink: Bahrain Breast Cancer Society’s last campaign.
A whopping BD47,000 was collected based on a series of events, culminating in the black-tie Think Pink Gala, and having more nurses with expertise helping sufferers in the kingdom fight the disease will be much appreciated by families.
“Breast cancer awareness is a cause that is very close to my heart and I am truly grateful for the charity’s sponsorship and the support they have given to me,” Ms Murdhi, who works full time at Mohamed Jasim Kanoo Health Centre, told the GDN. “With my Master’s degree, I aspire to be part of the movement that enhances the nursing sector in Bahrain.
“I believe that investing in nursing education and training is key to improving healthcare services. That’s why I aim to support the implementation of evidence-based practices and advocate for a more supportive and motivating work environment for nurses,” the holder of a Bachelor’s degree from Bahrain University added.
Breast cancer, a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumours, is the most common cancer with around 2.3 million new cases every year and 670, 000 deaths globally.
The Karzakkan resident has always viewed nursing as a ‘humanitarian mission’ and is passionate about making a difference in her community. Some of her goals include early screening and detection, better access to advanced treatment, community education and better emotional support for patients and survivors.
Mr Alabbadi was drawn to science – the human body and complexities of health and illness – from an early age, which evolved into a passion for helping people. Eventually, he decided to pursue a nursing degree and graduated from RCSI in 2019.
“Nursing offers a unique blend of science and human connection. I am honoured to be part of the Think Pink Bahrain community that actively engages in spreading awareness, education and support.” he said.
The King Hamad University Hospital nurse envisions a holistic healthcare system for Bahrain based on sound research and effective communication between patients and healthcare providers, with preventive care and wellness being a major goal.
“I intend to establish partnerships with hospitals and clinics to improve access to screening services. This includes advocating for mobile screening units to ensure that all individuals can receive timely evaluations,” the Salman City resident noted.
Mr Alabbadi aims to work toward enhancing nursing education that balances both, theoretical knowledge and practical skills, and influencing health policies that support the nursing profession, including better working conditions, fair compensation and more opportunities for professional development.
“Sponsoring our seventh and eighth nurses to complete their Masters at RCSI was made possible due to the donations made during our 2024 campaign. This means the full amount relieves them from the financial pressures and they can concentrate on the balance of work and study. Doing their thesis based on breast-cancer specific issues in Bahrain will help us and the community,” Think Pink Bahrain founder and president Dr Julie Sprakel said.
“Since inception, education continues to be at the forefront of decisions we as a board make. Evidence-based results and best practice are key to better support our community, with relevant and specific needs for our population,” she added.
Think Pink Bahrain is a home-grown, non-profit organisation, registered under the Social Development Ministry, and aims to educate and raise funds for breast cancer treatment, equipment and research. It celebrated its 20th anniversary last year.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
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