Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Oct 25: Daijiworld Media, in association with the Mangalore Institute of Oncology (MIO), launched a year-long cancer awareness campaign titled ‘Cancer Gellona’ at MIO, Mangaluru, on Saturday, October 25.
The initiative, part of Daijiworld.com’s celebrations marking 25 years of media excellence, aims to spread awareness, hope, and positivity about cancer prevention, treatment, and recovery among the public.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Captain Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament; Dr Suresh Rao, director, Radiation Oncology Department, MIO; Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld Media; Dr Jalaluddin Akbar, chief surgical oncologist, MIO; and Dr Rohanchandra Gatty, surgical oncologist, MIO.
The programme began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a floral presentation as a token of gratitude and goodwill.
In his inaugural address, Capt Brijesh Chowta commended Daijiworld and MIO for their collaborative effort to create social awareness through a positive lens.
“After a series of impactful programmes during the COVID-19 period, Daijiworld TV became a household name and continues to hold that position. Now, with this campaign on cancer awareness, the organisation once again spreads positivity and hope. I salute Daijiworld and MIO for this unique initiative, which will make a significant difference in society, especially in the health sector,” he said.
Capt Chowta also highlighted the achievements of Tulunadu in the fields of health and education. “We have immense achievements and a rich cultural heritage in Tulunadu. Unfortunately, we often find ourselves highlighted for the wrong reasons. Initiatives like this by Daijiworld and MIO remind us to focus on the positive aspects and serve as an inspiration,” he added.
In his introductory address, Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld Media, expressed his gratitude and shared the vision behind the campaign. “It is an honour to be alongside a former Army captain and the dedicated doctors of MIO. The Army protects our nation, and doctors protect lives. As Daijiworld celebrates 25 years of media excellence, we are launching Cancer Gellona — a year-long awareness drive featuring preventive tips, treatment information, survivor stories, and messages of hope,” he said.
He further emphasised the need to break the stigma surrounding cancer. “We realise the seriousness of cancer only when it touches someone close to us. It affects not just one individual but the entire family emotionally. We must break the myth that cancer means death. With positivity, medical support, and family strength, recovery is possible. We are not seeking financial help — only your support in spreading the message that cancer can be overcome,” he added.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Suresh Rao, director of the Radiation Oncology Department at MIO, underlined the importance of awareness and early diagnosis.
“Positivity plays a vital role in recovery. Fear must go — where fear ends, healing begins. At MIO, we prioritise early detection and treatment of cancer, which can lead to complete recovery. Unfortunately, due to fear and lack of awareness, many patients delay visiting hospitals until the later stages. This mindset must change. The MIO team is proud to support Daijiworld’s Cancer Gellona campaign wholeheartedly,” he said.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks, marking the beginning of a meaningful, year-long collaboration between Daijiworld Media and the Mangalore Institute of Oncology to promote cancer awareness and hope.
About MIO
Established in 2011, the Mangalore Institute of Oncology (MIO) has treated over 45,000 patients, achieving a 66% recovery rate. Nearly 60% of its treatments are offered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, ensuring affordable and advanced care for economically weaker sections.
MIO employs more than 300 staff members and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a Rapid Arc Linear Accelerator, PET-CT imaging, laminar-flow operation theatres, and HEPA-filtered rooms, ensuring world-class cancer care.
The hospital offers comprehensive services such as day-care chemotherapy, surgical oncology, palliative care, clinical nutrition, and Ayurveda-based therapies to enhance patient well-being.
In 2025, MIO achieved NABH entry-level accreditation, a mark of excellence in patient safety and healthcare standards. The institute is empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), offering cashless treatment for eligible patients.
Beyond medical care, MIO actively conducts community outreach and awareness programmes on early detection and prevention of cancer, reflecting its enduring commitment to building a healthier society.