Events 2024-2025

Events 2024

OCTOBER:

Event 1: Breast Cancer Awareness Session For L’OREAL PARIS and UBER DUBAI

On October 25 and October 29, 2023, L’Oréal Paris and Uber Dubai, in collaboration with the Lebanese Breast Cancer Foundation (LBCF) and LOIG, hosted two online breast cancer awareness sessions, respectively. The sessions aimed to educate participants about early detection, treatment options, and support mechanisms. LOIG facilitated a Q&A segment, offering attendees an opportunity to engage directly and learn more about cancer prevention and patient support. These events reflect LOIG’s ongoing commitment to raising cancer awareness and fostering informed communities.

Event 2: Cancer Fighters, War Survivors – Medication Drive and Donations Campaign

In collaboration with CSF, LOIG launched the “Cancer Fighters, War Survivors” campaign, an ongoing medication drive and donation initiative. Originally started in October during the war, the campaign seeks to support cancer patients facing challenges due to conflict. By providing essential medications and resources, the initiative highlights LOIG’s unwavering commitment to standing with cancer patients and survivors, even in the most difficult circumstances. LOIG was successfully able to secure two essential medications for cancer patients including PPIs and Neupogen.

Event 3: ASCO Oncology Student Interest Group

In October 2024, LOIG achieved a significant milestone by officially becoming a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). This membership marks a major step forward in LOIG’s mission to enhance cancer care and awareness. As part of ASCO, LOIG gains access to a global network of oncology experts and resources, further empowering its efforts to advance cancer research and education.

NOVEMBER:

Event 4: 10K Run for a Cause

On November 10, 2024, a group of dedicated students organized a 10K marathon in Broummana as a personal initiative to support a meaningful cause. Students gathered and participated to raise funds for LOIG initiative. Events like this highlight the power of youth-driven initiatives in fostering positive change and inspiring collective action.

Event 5: Panic attacks: what are the symptoms and what are helpful ways of addressing them?

This online webinar, led by Mrs. Farah Merdas, delved into the critical topic of panic and anxiety attacks, shedding light on their causes, symptoms, and effective coping strategies. Supporting others during tough times begins with understanding how to approach stressful situations thoughtfully. The interactive session emphasized the importance of awareness and community support in addressing mental health issues, reinforcing the value of collective efforts in promoting emotional well-being.

DECEMBER:

Event 8: Selling Cookies for a Cause

From December 23, 2024, to January 13, 2025, LOIG partnered with Eaze Café and Brew Coffee Shop to sell cookies, with proceeds dedicated to purchasing gifts for cancer patients. This initiative combined holiday cheer with meaningful action, allowing customers to contribute to a noble cause while enjoying festive treats.

Event 9: Prostate Cancer Case Discussion

On 27/12/2024, LOIG hosted an online prostate cancer case discussion featuring Dr. Sally Temraz and Fellow Dr. Sarah El Mustapha. The session provided valuable insights into prostate cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options. Through an interactive Q&A segment, attendees had the opportunity to engage with experts and gain a deeper understanding of the disease. This initiative underscores LOIG’s commitment to promoting cancer education.

Events 2025

January:

Event 10:
Date: January 2024
Name: “Sip for a Cause” and “Bite for a Cause”
Collaboration: Eaze and Brew
Location: Eaze Cafe- Brew Cafe

In January 2024, LOIG partnered with two coffee shops Eaze and Brew for an initiative titled “Sip and Bite for a Cause.” During this campaign, a percentage of proceeds from selected drinks and desserts was donated directly to support cancer patients. Additionally, LOIG bracelets were distributed to raise further awareness. This collaboration combined community engagement with meaningful impact, promoting LOIG’s mission through everyday actions.

Event 11:
Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Name: Master Your OncOSCE
Collaboration: Bamboo, Cheese on Top
Location: AUBMC – OPD Building, 5th Floor

On January 22, 2025, LOIG organized “Master Your OncOSCE,” a specialized OSCE workshop focused on oncology clinics, including breaking bad news, breast examination, and other clinical skills. The event featured 8 interactive stations and hands-on experience with physicians from AUBMC. It was designed to help medical students from all universities in Lebanon in their 4th and 5th years enhance their practical clinical skills.
Participation was limited to 20 students, with a minimal fee per person. The proceeds were donated to support cancer patients. Winning attendees also enjoyed free coupons from Bamboo
and Cheese on Top.

Event 12:
Date: Tuesday, February 4, 2025
Name: World Cancer Day: “Cancer Flips Our World Upside Down, Let Us Flip Cancer Vice Versa”
Collaboration: NKBCI
Location: AUBMC – Halim and Aida Daniel Academic and Clinical Center, Multipurpose Rooms

On February 4, 2025, LOIG collaborated with the Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute (NKBCI) to commemorate World Cancer Day through the initiative “Flip Cancer through United by Unique.” Held at AUBMC’s Halim and Aida Daniel Academic and Clinical Center, the event aimed to challenge perspectives on the fight against cancer. The event emphasized that defeating cancer requires collective effort and a shift in how we approach awareness, prevention, and care.

February:

Event 13:
Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025, and Sunday, February 9, 2025
Name: “Snowy Adventures with a Purpose”
Collaboration: Nature Adventures Community (NAC)
Location: Chabrouh, Faraya

On February 8 and 9, 2025, LOIG partnered with NAC for a snowshoeing adventure at a reserve in Chabrouh, Faraya. Under the theme “Snowy Adventures with a Purpose,” participants enjoyed hiking in the snow while helping in raising funds to finance free screening cancer clinics.

Event 14:
Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Name: The Role of Exercise in Cancer Prevention: Bridging Oncology and Sports Medicine
Speakers: Dr. Iman Abou Dalle and Dr. Hala Ishak
Location: SB101, Main Hospital Building, AUBMC

On February 25, 2025, LOIG hosted a live podcast session featuring a powerful conversation on “The Role of Exercise in Cancer Prevention: Bridging Oncology and Sports Medicine.” The event explored the significant impact of physical activity—from resistance training to cardiovascular exercise and powerlifting—on lowering cancer risk and enhancing outcomes.

The session featured two distinguished speakers:

Dr. Iman Abou Dalle, Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine in the Division of
Hematology-Oncology at AUBMC
Dr. Hala Ishak, Instructor of Clinical Specialty in Family Medicine and Primary
Care Sports Physician

This engaging dialogue brought together insights from oncology and sports medicine, providing attendees with evidence-based approaches to cancer prevention through exercise.

Event 15:
Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025
Name:Research Publications: Navigating Basic Science vs. Clinical Research and Their Impact on Your Medical Career
speakers: Dr. Zeina Kanafani
Location: Online Webinar

On February 27, 2025, LOIG hosted an educational webinar titled “Research Publications: Navigating Basic Science vs. Clinical Research and Their Impact on Your Medical Career.” The session featured Dr. Zeina Kanafani, Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at AUBMC.

The webinar aimed to guide medical students in understanding the distinctions between basic science and clinical research, and how both can shape academic and professional trajectories.
The event offered attendees valuable insights and practical advice for advancing their research careers.

March:

Event 16:
Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Name: From Virus to Cancer: Understanding HPV’s Impact on Health
Location: AUBMC – ACC Multipurpose Room

On March 5, 2025, LOIG hosted a panel discussion titled “From Virus to Cancer: Understanding HPV’s Impact on Health.” The event focused on HPV, cervical cancer, and vaccine awareness, highlighting the latest medical advancements and public health strategies.

Speakers included:

Dr. Faysal El Kak, Clinical Associate of OBGYN & Sexual Health, Director of the WISH Program at AUBMC
Dr. Nesrine Rizk, Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine, Subspecialty Infectious Diseases, AUBMC
Dr. Maroun Sadek, Head of the Department of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Lebanese Hospital Geitaoui

Held at the AUBMC ACC Multipurpose Room, the discussion was followed by an informal meet-and-greet over small bites during Iftar time, encouraging further dialogue and networking.

Event 17:
Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
Name:Colorectal Cancer Screening Clinic
speakers: Care Clinic, GIG, SAID NGO
Location: Wassef and Souad Sawwaf Building, AUBMC

On March 15, 2025, during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, LOIG joined forces with the Care Clinic, the Gastroenterology Interest Group (GIG), and SAID NGO to host a colorectal cancer screening clinic at the Wassef and Souad Sawwaf Building, AUBMC. This initiative aimed to promote early detection and was able to provide screening services for 13 patients in need.

Additionally, a follow-up colorectal awareness campaign was held on March 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM in AUBMC. Activities included:

A walk-through inflatable colon to visually educate participants
Quizzes and games led by volunteers
Sales of snacks and blue ribbon pins to support the cause
A fun challenge to wear the “bluest outfit” for a chance to win an Iftar for two

Sales helped in covering the cost of a later colorectal cancer screening clinic. This event combined education, community engagement, and advocacy to help combat colorectal cancer.

Event 18:
Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
Name:Lifeline Women’s Health Clinic
Collaboration: OGIG & LOIG
Location: OPD, 6th Floor, AUBMC

On March 15, 2025, LOIG and OGIG collaborated to host the Lifeline Women’s Health Clinic initiative at the OPD, 6th Floor, AUBMC. This initiative focused on empowering women through offering health screening services (mammogram and pap smears) for those in need. The event provided a safe and welcoming environment for women to receive guidance on various aspects of their health and understand the importance of early screening for breast cancer and
cervical cancer.

Event 19:
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Name:Mastering Essential Clinical Skills: A Hands-on Workshop
Location: LAU Jbeil Simulation Center – 4th Floor, Medical Building

On March 27, 2025, LOIG hosted “Mastering Essential Clinical Skills: A Hands-on Workshop” at the LAU Jbeil Simulation Center. This event offered students a practical, skills-based learning experience through three interactive stations.

IV/IM/Subcutaneous Insertion
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Sampling
Foley Catheter Placement (male and female)

The session emphasized safe technique, confidence-building, and hands-on practice supporting LOIG’s commitment to medical education.

April:

Event 20:
Date: Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Name:Crush Kancer: A Survivor’s Journey of Resilience and Growth
Collaboration: Charif Kaiss
Location: Online Webinar

On April 2, 2025, LOIG hosted an inspiring online webinar titled “Crush Kancer: A Survivor’s Journey of Resilience and Growth,” featuring special guest Charif Kaiss, cancer survivor and founder of “Crush Kancer with a Smile”.

During this heartfelt session, Charif shared his personal battle with cancer, the lessons he learned through adversity, and how his journey led him to author a book and launch an initiative to empower others facing similar challenges. The webinar served as a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, positivity, and community in the fight against cancer.

Open to all, patients, survivors, supporters, and advocates, this event created a space of hope and strength for everyone touched by cancer.

Event 21:
Date: Thursday, April 3, 2025
Name:Laughter for a Cause: Pediatrics Edition
Collaboration: Clown Me In
Location: AUB-SML300

On April 3, 2025, LOIG, in collaboration with Clown Me In, hosted a workshop entitled “Laughter for a Cause: Pediatrics Edition” at AUB-SML300. This interactive workshop was
designed to prepare future physicians for working with pediatric patients, with a focus on psychosocial care in pediatric oncology. Through creative activities and engaging discussions,
participants learned how to connect with young patients using humor and compassion.

Event 22:
Date: Thursday, April 3, 2025
Name: Hope and Healing: Doctor-Patient Insights on Multiple Myeloma
Collaboration: Outlook, NSS, FHSSS, MSS
Location: Nabil Boustany Auditorium, Van Dyck, AUB

On April 3, 2025, LOIG collaborated with Outlook, NSS, FHSSS, and MSS to host an inspiring talk entitled: “Hope and Healing: Doctor-Patient Insights on Multiple Myeloma.”

The event featured a comprehensive presentation by Dr. Nour Moukalled, Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine in The Hematology Oncology Department, shedding light on the clinical aspects and challenges of Multiple Myeloma, followed by a moving testimony from a survivor. The session aimed to raise awareness, foster empathy, and provide both scientific knowledge and human connection around this complex hematologic malignancy.

Event 23:
Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Name: Medical Awareness Day
Collaboration: Rotaract Millennium
Location: CCS Naameh

On April 12, 2025, LOIG participated in a Medical Awareness Day held at CCS Naameh in collaboration with Rotaract Millennium. The event featured free health screenings and interactive sessions, promoting preventive care in the community. A mobile clinic from Hotel Dieu de France was present on-site, offering free medical consultations to the general population. LOIG also hosted a dedicated stand focused on cancer screening and prevention, raising awareness about early detection and sharing valuable educational resources with the public.

May:

Event 24:
Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Name: Giggles with Our Little Warriors
Collaboration: Toys 4 Less, Spektra Events
Location: Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon (CCCL)

On May 14, 2025, LOIG partnered with CCCL with the help of Toys 4 Less and Spektra Events for a heartwarming event dedicated to bringing joy and entertainment to children cancer patients: “Giggles with Our Little Warriors”. The visit was filled with heartfelt moments as gifts were distributed to children, accompanied by engaging entertainment and cheerful activities.

June:

Event 25:
Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Name: Smoking Cessation Program – Tobacco Awareness Campaign
Collaboration: Smoking Cessation Program at AUBMC, Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute
Location: AUBMC Main Hospital Entrance & ACC Building

On June 3, 2025, LOIG took part in a collaborative Tobacco Awareness Campaign alongside the Smoking Cessation Program and the Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute at AUBMC. Held at the Main Hospital Entrance and ACC Building, this campaign aimed to educate the public about the harmful effects of smoking and promote healthier, smoke-free lifestyles. The event featured interactive stations led by volunteers, where participants engaged in awareness games and received valuable resources. To further motivate positive change, attendees who promised to start their smoking cessation journey won free gym access.

Event 26:
Date: Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Name: Bringing Smiles to Every Bedside
Collaboration: Smile in a Box, Spektra Events
Location: Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit (Kids’ First), SGHUMC

On June 25, 2025, LOIG partnered with Kids’ First with the help of Smile in a Box and Spektra Events to organize a heartfelt gift distribution event at the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit of SGHUMC. The initiative aimed to bring joy and comfort to children undergoing cancer treatment by providing thoughtful gifts and fun musical entertainment.

July:

Event 27:
Date: Thursday, July 3, 2025
Name: Skin Cancer Awareness and Screening Day
Collaboration: Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute, Department of Dermatology at AUBMC
Location: AUBMC ACC Building

On July 3, 2025, LOIG collaborated with the Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute and the Department of Dermatology at AUBMC to host a Skin Cancer Awareness and Screening Day. This campaign focused on educating the public about skin cancer prevention, early detection, and sun safety. Attendees benefited from interactive educational booths, free sunscreen samples provided by Aderma and Beesline, and complimentary skin checks by a team of medical experts. Participants also had the unique opportunity to shadow and assist doctors during the screenings, deepening their practical experience in dermatologic oncology.

Event 28:
Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
Name: Reimagining Medicine: From AI to Ethics
Collaboration: ILMA, SciencePro, IJCR
Location: InterContinental Phoenicia Hotel, Beirut

On July 26, 2025, LOIG proudly participated in organizing the Second Annual International Lebanese Medical Association (ILMA) Global Conference at the InterContinental Phoenicia Hotel in Beirut. In partnership with SciencePro, and IJCR, LOIG specifically oversaw the coordination of VIP guests during this prestigious event. Under the theme “Reimagining Medicine: From AI to Ethics,” the conference gathered healthcare professionals, researchers, students, and global leaders to discuss and explore the future of medicine amid rapid technological and ethical changes. This international platform offered LOIG an unparalleled opportunity to network, collaborate, and engage with thought leaders in the medical field worldwide.