BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI
“I had stage 4 cancer, and here I am today, standing in front of you, in good health,” says Thokozani Khupe, a Member of Parliament (MP), as she shares her personal battle with cancer to other MPs on Thursday, during a full parliamentary session.
“My journey has made me understand that development is not rocket science, but about discovering what others have done and copying from them.”
Khupe emphasizes the importance of research and development in finding new and improved ways to enhance public health and stay ahead of the disease.
“With modernization, stage 4 cancer can be treated, and I am a living testimony,” she says. “It is imperative for the government to prioritize and invest in research and development, leading to breakthroughs in new cancer treatments.”
Khupe highlights the need for state-of-the-art cancer equipment, particularly combined CT/Pet scans, which provide more accurate diagnoses.
“Wrong diagnosis results in wrong treatment, and I am a good example,” she shares.
“I was initially diagnosed with ovarian cancer, but later discovered I had Lobular breast cancer. With the right diagnosis, I received the right treatment, and my tumors responded well.”
Khupe stresses the importance of awareness programs, citing that many people are unaware of cancer and its risks.
“Awareness programs will help people know they have cancer at an early stage, making treatment easier and cheaper,” she says. “It is essential for the government to partner with organizations like the Thokozani Khupe Cancer Foundation to intensify awareness programs.”
According to the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe (CAZ), cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Zimbabwe, with over 7 500 new cases and over 2 500 deaths recorded per year.
Khupe emphasizes that cancer treatment must be available, accessible, and affordable in Zimbabwe.
Other MPs, seconded Khuphe’s motion, acknowledging the importance of prioritizing health and making cancer treatment accessible to all.
Pupurai Togarepi praised Khupe’s positivity and encouraged others to adopt a similar mindset when faced with cancer.