Nagina Kaleem’s cancer journey was not only a fight against illness but also a struggle against fear, rejection and misunderstanding.
A science teacher by profession, Nagina spent over 20 years promoting girls’ education in Pakistan. After moving to the UK, she faced one of the biggest challenges of her life. She was diagnosed with cancer and went through difficult treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery.
Sadly, during her cancer journey, Nagina experienced rejection and isolation at a time when she needed care and support the most. A close friend stopped speaking to her and some people stopped eating and drinking in her home because they wrongly believed that cancer was contagious.
Some people also believe that cancer is a punishment…
In some Asian communities, cancer is still associated with death, and a diagnosis can be seen as hopeless. Some people also believe that cancer is a punishment for sins or wrong actions. Nagina remembers how painful this was during chemotherapy. She said, “When I was at my weakest and needed encouragement and support, people told me to repent for my sins and ask God for forgiveness. This caused me great pain when I was already fighting for my life.”
These experiences inspired Nagina to raise cancer awareness and challenge harmful beliefs. She wants people to understand that anyone can develop cancer, even without a family history. Cancer is a disease, not a punishment and it does not spread through everyday social contact.
She works to empower women, especially those from immigrant backgrounds
Nagina has always believed in the power of education to change lives. Through her community work at Cross-Culture Hub CIC, she brings people together through cultural activities, learning and shared experiences. She works to empower women, especially those from immigrant backgrounds, who may face isolation, language barriers and difficulties accessing information and support.
Her work creates welcoming spaces where people can build friendships, learn new skills and feel part of their community. She is passionate about making health information easier to understand and encouraging people to talk openly about issues that are often hidden by fear or shame.
Through her cancer awareness work and Communities Against Cancer, Nagina hopes to use her experience to help others feel less alone and more confident about seeking support. Cancer treatments have advanced, and many cancers can be treated successfully. Finding cancer early can make a real difference.
Nagina shares an important message
Through her work, Nagina wants to share this important message: “Do not let fear or shame stop you from seeking medical advice. Do not delay and do not suffer in silence. Cancer can affect anyone and everyone deserves kindness, understanding and support.”
By turning her difficult experience into a mission to educate and support others, Nagina hopes to break the silence around cancer and build stronger, healthier and more inclusive communities.
Learn more about our Community Health Champions
Nagina is now a Community Health Champion for Action Hampshire’s Communities Against Cancer project. She is one of a team of 25 volunteers bridging the gap between the community, GPs and health services.
