Devoted caregivers providing round-the-clock support to family members with cancer have told of the emotional and physical toll they face as they seek to "stay strong" for loved ones in their hour of need.
Dedicated relatives spoke of the deep bonds and sense of purpose they feel in offering a helping hand to those closest to them and the need to develop resilience and inner strength to meet the challenges they encounter head on.
Emirati Eiman Al Blooshi, 25, is one of many such "unsung heroes" and has emphasised the need to strike the right balance to avoid mental burnout while carrying out an act of compassion.
Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2023, and she started the journey of healing with her for months, with many hurdles along the way for both.
“She had chemotherapy and 15 sessions of radiation. Her body became weak and I had to be there for her,” Ms Al Blooshi told The National. “She couldn’t move without a wheelchair, and it was very difficult for me on both sides, emotional and physical.”
Being based in Ajman and having a job in Abu Dhabi meant it was an arduous task for Ms Al Blooshi to be with her mother in hospital for the surgery to remove the tumour, as well to help her to recover.
“She couldn’t move, and I was looking after her. I neglected my life and was trying to balance my work and her,” she added.
“I used to take her to emergency and stay with her to the morning and then go to work and back to her. I wasn’t eating well, and I was constantly worrying.
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