Problem Statement
Cancer is emerging as one of leading causes of death in Zambia, with many patients diagnosed at advanced stages. Comprehensive palliative care services are inadequate, leaving many patients to suffer without relief. Access to essential palliative care is limited, highlighting the urgent need for a programme that provides comfort and support to those facing the end of life.
Objectives
- Establish a palliative care program in Lusaka, Zambia, in collaboration with St. Ignatius Parish, other parishes in the country and the Cancer Disease Hospital.
- Develop a community-based palliative care model for expansion across Zambia.
- Provide comprehensive care and support to cancer patients and their families.
- Raise awareness about the importance of palliative care.
- Train healthcare professionals and volunteers in palliative care principles and practices.
The Ubuntu Champions Foundation
Welcome to Ubuntu Zambia, where the timeless spirit of Ubuntu thrives. Rooted in the rich soil of Zambian culture, we are a movement dedicated to nurturing human kindness, solidarity, and mutual respect
The Ubuntu Champions Foundation in Zambia is dedicated to fostering health as part of its mission to empower communities and bring about positive change. Through community-driven initiatives, the foundation provides palliative healthcare, implements feeding programs, and ensures access to healthcare services. By addressing the underlying causes of socioeconomic disparities, Ubuntu Zambia strives for sustainable impact, aiming to uplift individuals and communities by championing empathy, respect, and compassion.
Intervention: Holistic Care in Cancer Palliative Care: Embracing Integral Well-being
Cancer palliative care transcends the mere administration of drugs; it encompasses a holistic approach that addresses the multifaceted needs of patients and their loved ones. The Dr. Alex Mushikita Nkandu Cancer Palliative Care Initiative is committed to providing integral care that nurtures the material, emotional, and spiritual well-being of those affected by cancer.
Holistic care recognises that the journey through cancer is not just a physical battle but also an emotional and spiritual odyssey. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit and seeks to provide comprehensive support that respects this unity. This approach is crucial in cancer care because it addresses the whole person, ensuring that all aspects of their well-being are cared for.
Material care involves providing physical comfort and managing symptoms to alleviate pain and improve the quality of life. Emotional care offers a compassionate presence, understanding, and counseling to help patients and their families cope with the psychological impact of cancer. Spiritual care, rooted in the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 25, offers solace and guidance, helping individuals find meaning, hope, and peace in their journey. By embracing holistic care, the Dr. Alex Mushikita Nkandu Cancer Palliative Care Initiative aims to create a nurturing environment where patients and their loved ones feel supported in every aspect of their experience. This integral approach to care goes beyond the administration of drugs; it is about honoring the dignity of each person and providing a compassionate embrace that uplifts their spirit and fortifies their resolve to face the challenges of cancer.
Additional Considerations
Research and data collection to inform best practices.
Sustainability planning with diverse funding sources and community involvement.
Cultural sensitivity and legal/ethical considerations.
Collaboration with other health services for comprehensive care.
Public policy advocacy for supportive policies.
Implementation Plan
The initiative will be implemented in phases, starting with planning and preparation, followed by pilot implementation in Lusaka, expansion and scaling, and long-term sustainability and impact assessment.