Ather Ilyas Discovers the Value of Volunteering

Meet Ather Ilyas. He volunteered at Shaukat Khanum Hospital (SKMCH) over the summer and learned a great deal about himself and others.

“Just before the summer vacations, I was at an internship fair along with my friends. We saw a couple of volunteers who had a desk set-up for Shaukat Khanum Hospital and we said, ‘why not? Let’s do something productive this vacation. And since Shaukat Khanum Hospital is the biggest cancer hospital in the country, what better place to do it?’ So I signed up for a summer-long placement, and it wasn’t long before my application was accepted.

“I went to the hospital every day throughout the summer. I was only there for two hours every day, but it did mean a 9am start. My job was to spend time with the patients at the Chemo Bay. I would play card games and board games with them –anything divert their attention from their illnesses for a short while at least.

“The experience made me feel grateful for my health. It also made me want to do more to help. So when I was asked whether I’d want to join the outdoors volunteer team for the Coin-Collection Campaign I agreed straight away.

It was hot outside and working in the heat of summer was a challenge. I admit that some mornings I didn’t want to get up early to go on the collection. But then I would remember the smile of a child and the warm feeling associated with helping someone, and I would jump out of bed.

“You see it’s worth it. You realize there is more to life than just your exams, your grades, or who’s winning the next table-tennis game. You see other people besides yourself. You leave a piece of your heart with each patient you meet. And you receive bits of their love as well. I want to re-live this feeling. I am coming back next year.”

Shaukat Khanum Hospital (SKMCH) and Imran Khan Cancer Appeal (IKCA) were born out of the good will of ordinary people; adults and youth like Ather Ilyas. Today, that good will lives on in every donor, hospital staff, team member and volunteer who makes it possible for us to continue providing free cancer care in Pakistan.

We rely on the generosity and kindness of ordinary people, so please support us in any way you can. Donate any amount you can spare today, volunteer to Fundraise for IKCA or Sign Up to one of our upcoming challenges. Every little will go a long way in saving lives.