Pope Francis: Hope for cancer sufferers in dark times!

Pope Francis: Hope for cancer sufferers in dark times!

Pope Francis has urged people not to abandon people with cancer and their families. At a meeting on December 14, 2024 with representatives of the Italian Association Against Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma (AIL) at the Vatican, he stressed the importance of extending a helping hand to people suffering from these serious diseases. “In the darkness of pain and fear, there is a need for light of hope,” the Pope said. The 55th anniversary of the AIL provided the backdrop for this moving speech, which emphasized the importance of closeness, friendship and support from the social environment.

Important message of solidarity

On this occasion, Francis praised the extensive work of the AIL, which has been conducting medical research and providing psychosocial support to those affected since its founding in 1968. “Your work is a light of hope,” he said. In addition, he reported on a remarkable advance in the treatment of blood cancer: A 14-year-old patient is being treated in the Roman children's hospital Bambino Gesù using a new method that is promising. These successes are also the result of the commitment of the AIL, which operates with over 80 regional branches.

The Pope emphasized that society should not exclude sick people. “Illness is often perceived as a defeat, but it is up to us to focus on the people affected,” he appealed. The AIL enables people to gain hope and not fall into isolation. Francis concluded his conversation by thanking the association’s helpers and volunteers: “Thank you for the love and hope you give!” A strong sign that reminds us that no one should be alone in the dark, either kathpress.at and vaticannews.va confirm.