According to AOA, its mission is to “improve the quality of life of people facing oncological challenges, support their families, and raise awareness about the importance of prevention and timely diagnosis,” and it has developed a range of services designed to assist patients and families while working alongside healthcare professionals, public institutions, volunteers, and community partners throughout the region.

Among the services offered are psycho-oncology consultations, nutritional counselling, physiotherapy, speech therapy, stoma care, self-image support, and guidance designed to address physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. These services are available to help navigate the challenges that can accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Geography can create additional challenges as well. Some patients must travel considerable distances for appointments or specialized services.

In addition, AOA plays a significant role in prevention and early detection. The association built the Algarve’s first and only Radiotherapy Unit, allowing patients to receive treatment closer to home. Through its radiotherapy services, they provide over 19,000 treatments annually to patients who would otherwise have to travel hundreds of kilometers from home.”
AOA also coordinates the Algarve Breast Cancer Screening Programme. To increase access and coverage across the region, a second mobile screening unit was recently introduced which means that the screening initiative will be able to reach some 25,000 people.

Getting involved

Volunteers play an important role. Their involvement ranges from administrative support and newsletter distribution to awareness campaigns, fundraising initiatives, screenings, and public events.

Volunteers are also essential to Mamamaratona, the association’s largest annual event and one of the Algarve’s biggest solidarity initiatives. Held each October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the event attracts nearly 4,000 participants and relies on volunteers to assist with logistics, registration, participant support, information points, and event coordination.

AOA continues to develop new initiatives. Current projects include a Solidarity Calendar featuring stories from people affected by cancer, MOVE.Tavira, a community walk and run promoting cancer prevention and healthy lifestyles, and Dançar em Azul, an event that uses dance to raise awareness about men’s cancers, particularly prostate and testicular cancer.

The initiative is also working toward one of its most ambitious long-term projects: Casa Flor das Dunas, a future accommodation facility supporting patients and families who need to stay near Faro while undergoing treatment.

Read more about the work of AOA in the August issue of AlgarvePLUS.

Photo credit: Depositphotos.