Every year, one million new cases of cancer occur in India. Over 80% of these cases are detected at stages III and IV of the disease's progression, and over three quarters are deemed incurable.
Despite the crying need for care, statistics for cancer facilities in India are grim. Less than three per cent of cancer patients have access to adequate pain relief. Many states in India have no medical facilities that prescribe morphine, and the concept of palliative care is almost unknown. Only one state, Kerala, offers comprehensive palliative care services for cancer patients. Thirty-eight institutions in other states offer palliative services in a more limited form. Nineteen states or union territories have no palliative care facilities whatsoever.

The need for hospices in India is dire, especially in the north. Every human being has a right to die with dignity and minimal distress. In India, cancer patients cannot achieve this. Health care workers have not yet embraced the hospice concept.

1) manage the pain of cancer patients in the terminal phase;
2) manage other common symptoms of these patients, such as gastrointestinal dysfunction and respiratory problems;
3) provide comfort and basic care to terminal phase cancer patients and their loved ones during the dying process;
4) provide information to terminal phase cancer patients and their care-givers;
5) offer emotional and spiritual support to terminal phase cancer patients and their loved ones;
6) provide services free of charge to any terminally ill cancer patient regardless of age, race, religion or financial status.

Our goal of providing holistic care and improving the quality of life in the last days of a cancer patient's journey is achievable with your generous contribution.