February 2026 was a particularly active month for Wings of Hope Association.
In two important media appearances on RTV 7 Tuzla - in the Morning Program and in the central
news broadcast “Hronika grada” - the Association presented its mission, goals, and ongoing
efforts to improve support for oncology patients.
Wings of Hope Association was founded
in January 2025 at the initiative of physicians from the Clinic for Oncology and Radiotherapy
at the University Clinical Center Tuzla. During the interviews, members of the Association,
Dr. Arzumana Ožegović Oručević and Dr. Amir Omerović, spoke about the challenges faced by
lung cancer patients and emphasized the importance of stronger institutional support.
The Association is the first organization of this type in the Federation of
Bosnia and Herzegovina established directly by medical professionals actively working
with oncology patients. Its mission is to provide comprehensive support beyond hospital
walls, built upon three key pillars: psychosocial assistance, education, and logistical
support.
A special focus during the interviews was placed on several key topics:
• Foundation and Mission
The Association was established with the primary
goal of supporting patients through education and the preservation of emotional stability
throughout the treatment process.
• Concerning Statistics
During the past year, 199 newly diagnosed lung
cancer cases were registered in the canton. Unfortunately, nearly half of these
patients (96 individuals) were diagnosed at stage IV, highlighting the urgent need
for the introduction of a lung cancer screening program.
• Advocacy for Modern Therapies
The Association strongly advocates for
improved access to molecular testing and targeted therapies, which significantly improve
treatment outcomes and patients' quality of life.
• Support from the City of Tuzla
Thanks to the support of Mayor Zijad
Lugavić, the Association has been provided with premises in local community centers and at
the Ilinčica recreational area, expanding its capacity to organize workshops, meetings,
and support activities.
The Association's doors remain open to all patients, their family members,
and citizens who wish to support its mission. Membership is free of charge for
patients and can be completed through online registration or in person
at the Clinic for Oncology in Tuzla.
We invite you to watch the full video recordings of the
interviews and learn more about the Association's plans for 2026,
including professional lectures in March and activities marking World Health Day in April.