The National Conference: Empowering Lives: Rare Diseases in the Evolving Maltese Society

The National Conference: Empowering Lives: Rare Diseases in the Evolving Maltese Society was organized by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the National Alliance for Rare Diseases Support Malta and the University of Malta under the Esteemed Patronage of the President of the Republic. The Minister of Health and Active Ageing opened the conference giving an explanation of rare diseases in surgeries. Mr Clarence Pace Chief Medical officer spoke about the need to co ordinate with all the stakeholders including the patient representatives.

Healthy Heart Awareness Campaign

For the fourth consecutive year on Valentine’s Day, The Marigold Foundation has launched an educational campaign focused on heart health and prevention.

The Healthy Heart Awareness Campaign aims to educate the general public about the difference between a heart attack and heart fatigue. This was explained by Mr. Robert Xuereb, Consultant Cardiologist and Honorary Member of The Marigold Foundation Board, who highlighted the importance of caring for our heart health, being aware of symptoms, and understanding early intervention and available treatment options.

Mrs. Michelle Muscat, Founder and Chair of The Marigold Foundation, remarked that on this particular day, as the Foundation celebrates its 11th Anniversary, this campaign reflects the Foundation’s commitment to its three core pillars: health, social wellbeing, and education — all of which are being addressed through this initiative.

Mrs. Muscat emphasized that The Marigold Foundation firmly believes in advancing the wellbeing of every citizen in Malta and improving quality of life through awareness, education, and support services. In doing so, the Foundation continues to contribute towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through the tireless work of voluntary organizations like The Marigold Foundation.

Also present for this occasion was Dr. Mark Abela, Cardiologist with a special interest in Sports Cardiology and Genetics. Dr. Abela spoke about the symptoms of heart fatigue and offered practical advice on how individuals can strengthen their heart health and focus on prevention.

Second Phase of the Oncology Outreach Service

It is with pleasure that we present the Second Phase of the Oncology Outreach Service that will be rolled out this year with funds collected during the educational Pink October Movember Campaign 2024 held by The Marigold Foundation. This was announced today by campaign leader Michelle Muscat in the presence of Dr. Nick Refalo Clinical Chair at Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Hospital and Dr Danica Marmara Director Cancer Care Pathways. Michelle Muscat thanked all those who participated in the campaign, from its concept design to all the pink and blue days organised by the various schools, offices, businesses to the participants attending the various events, to those retailers and business who collected donations, and main sponsors so that this project becomes a reality. Dr. Refalo thanked The Marigold Foundation for their annual Pink October Movember  campaign as raising awareness and educating the public is crucial if we want to reduce our cancer rates and also diagnose cancer at early stages which lead to better survival rates. Dr. Refalo expressed his gratitude and appreciation for all the past projects and looks forward to phase 2 of the Oncology in the Community Project.