Sri Lanka receives Rs. 330 million in cancer medicines from US charity

Sri Lanka has received a donation of essential cancer medicines valued at approximately Rs. 330 million from Latter-day Saint Charities (LDSC), a US-based charitable organization affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The consignment includes critical oncology drugs such as Oxaliplatin, Abiraterone, and Methotrexate, intended to support patients within the government health system and alleviate shortages in state healthcare facilities.

In addition to the pharmaceutical aid, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed to provide 600 specialized wheelchairs for patients with spinal cord injuries. This initiative follows a 2023 phase where 570 wheelchairs were distributed. The program will also include specialized training for healthcare professionals, including doctors and physiotherapists, on wheelchair prescription and maintenance in accordance with World Health Organization guidelines.

Over the past two years, LDSC has donated approximately US$ 2 million (Rs. 660 million) worth of essential cancer medicines to Sri Lanka.