When Nour Ali Shokry was diagnosed with cancer in June 2020, she felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness. Despite being surrounded by people, she noticed a deep gap in emotional and practical support for cancer patients in Egypt. There was no strong, unified community where patients, survivors, families, and professionals could openly share, learn, and heal together.
Out of this experience, Together We CANcer was born—a Facebook community that has since grown into a powerful and life-changing support network across Egypt.
Nour Ali Shokry believes it is time to change how society talks about cancer. She says, “We should stop calling cancer the bad disease. All diseases are bad.” Her words challenge stigma, fear, and misinformation, replacing them with honesty, compassion, and hope.
At the heart of her philosophy is a belief she lives by:
“Cancer changes you—and the change can be beautiful.”
Together We CANcer: More Than a Support Group
Together We CANcer is not just an online group—it is a safe, inclusive community built for anyone impacted by cancer. Patients, survivors, caregivers, doctors, and supporters come together in a space where vulnerability is respected and no one feels judged.
The community focuses on three core pillars:
Knowledge and Awareness
By sharing accurate, simplified medical information and connecting members with trusted doctors and specialists, the community helps patients better understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and next steps. This knowledge reduces fear and empowers people to make informed decisions.
Psychological and Emotional Support
Together We CANcer places strong emphasis on mental and emotional well-being. Nour Ali Shokry and her team offer emotional guidance and cancer coaching designed specifically for people navigating life during and after treatment.
Continuous Engagement and Belonging
The community hosts regular free workshops, talks, and gatherings, creating moments of connection and joy. Members celebrate birthdays together, share job opportunities, and support one another beyond illness—making the group feel like a family, not just a support forum.
Through this holistic approach, Together We CANcer has become one of the most impactful cancer support communities in the region.
Nour Ali Shokry’s Journey: From Patient to Change-Maker
Nour Ali Shokry’s journey began with fear and uncertainty when she started chemotherapy. Like many patients, she felt isolated. But instead of turning inward, she chose to speak openly and create a space where no one would ever feel alone again.
Although her mother initially encouraged her to focus only on her own healing, Nour felt a responsibility to support others. She explains, “It is easier to face hard times when you know you are not alone.”
Her honesty gave others permission to speak up. Slowly, stories poured in—stories of fear, strength, setbacks, and hope—breaking the silence that often surrounds cancer in Egypt.
Breaking the Stigma Around Cancer
One of Nour Ali Shokry’s biggest missions is breaking the stigma associated with cancer. She challenges harmful language and expectations, including the idea that patients must be “fighters” or constantly appear strong.
She explains, “Most of our community hates those words. I am not a fighter. Do not put that expectation on me.”
For her, healing does not come from pressure—it comes from acceptance, honesty, and kindness.
She also works tirelessly to change how cancer is viewed in society and workplaces. Nour Ali Shokry strongly believes that cancer patients can be integral, capable, and effective members of the workforce. A diagnosis should not force someone into silence or fear of discrimination.
She advocates for environments where patients can be open about their condition without risking their jobs or dignity—where flexibility, understanding, and respect replace fear.
Self-Love, Healing, and Embracing Change
The workshops organized by Nour Ali Shokry and her team focus deeply on self-love during and after treatment. They help participants accept physical and emotional changes, let go of guilt, and embrace the new person they become after such a profound hardship.
One of the most impactful themes explored is forgiveness—of oneself, of others, and of life circumstances. These sessions guide patients toward peace, acceptance, and confidence in their new reality.
Nour emphasizes that emotional support should never come from pity. It must come from respect. This approach allows patients to feel whole, valued, and empowered—not defined by illness.
Encouraging Men to Speak Up
Another major breakthrough for Together We CANcer has been encouraging men to open up. In many cultures, including Egypt, men are taught to suppress emotions—especially during illness.
Over time, through trust and consistency, Nour Ali Shokry created a space where men felt safe to speak. Slowly, more men began sharing their fears and experiences, proving how powerful safe environments can be in reshaping cultural norms.
Beyond Social Media: Reaching Those Who Need It Most
While the community thrives online, Nour Ali Shokry knows that many patients—especially those from modest backgrounds—do not have access to social media or health education.
Changing mindsets around cancer, early detection, and treatment is a gradual process. Nour remains committed to expanding awareness beyond digital platforms and reaching people at every level of society.
Medical Access, Workplace Rights, and the Road Ahead
Egypt has made progress in cancer care, particularly through initiatives like the Women’s Health Initiative, which has improved access to early detection and treatment.
However, Nour Ali Shokry believes more must be done—especially when it comes to workplace rights. Many patients still fear losing their jobs if they disclose their diagnosis. She hopes to see stronger labor protections that ensure cancer patients are treated with dignity and fairness, particularly in the private sector.
Looking ahead, the team operating Together We CANcer is working toward expanding the initiative into a more structured organization—one that can collaborate with institutions and reach patients in government hospitals who need support the most.
Nour Ali Shokry’s Advice
Her advice to anyone facing cancer—or supporting someone who is—is heartfelt and honest:
“Be vocal about your diagnosis. Do not suffer in silence. Find support wherever you can—family, friends, work, or community. Take it one step at a time. You do not need to be strong every day.”
A Lasting Impact
Nour Ali Shokry has transformed personal pain into collective healing. Through Together We CANcer, she has helped thousands feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Her message is clear and deeply human:
Cancer does not end your life—it changes it. And sometimes, that change can be beautiful.
She says, “I am not competing with anyone. I hope we can all make it to our best selves.”
Through her courage and community, cancer patients in Egypt are finding their voices—and their hope.
Together, we CAN.
Do follow her on Instagram
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