By Wezi Tjaronda WINDHOEK An organization formed to support children with cancer in Namibia, yesterday received financial assistance of N$72ÃÆ’Æ‘ÀÃ…ÃÆ”šÃ‚ 000. Geka Pharma, a local pharmaceutical company, yesterday became the first sponsor of Children with Cancer (Chica) Namibia since its inception in 2006. Linky SchÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ”šÃ‚¤ffner, mother of a son diagnosed with cancer in 2004 at the age of 16, became interested in starting a support group for children with cancer in the country. She felt she had something to offer to others who may be going through the same experience. SchÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ”šÃ‚¤ffner is currently Chica’s National Coordinator. The organization aims at providing support for children suffering from cancer for them to know that they are not alone in the fight as there are other children suffering from the same disease. The organization, made up of volunteers, offers the children financial and emotional support. Currently, it is involved in re-establishing a school that is attended by small kids suffering from cancer at the State Hospital. It has also provided books on cancer to patients and their families for them to gain knowledge regarding the illness. The book collection will be expanded once Chica has more funds available. The members of the Chica committee also need to gain knowledge and experience in dealing with the highly emotional and sensitive nature of the illness and will need to undergo an enrichment programme by attending workshops and informative talks. Cancer Association Chief Executive Officer, Reinette Koegelenberg, said yesterday the donation would enable Chica to raise awareness on preventative measures as well as to educate the public on the disease. Chica feels that cancer can be prevented by adopting a positive frame of mind, healthy nutrition and regular exercise. But, to get these messages across, the organization is presently working on a DVD which depicts Chica’s work with the kids. Geka Pharma’s Managing Director, Willie van Wyk, said it was important for a pharmaceutical distribution company to sponsor Chica because it is geared towards ensuring that young children develop without hindrances such as cancer.