USA Masters team makes significant contribution to Suwa Arana
The Masters Cricket USA cricket team currently in Sri Lanka for the IMC Over-50s World Cup 2025, made a significant contribution of $10,000 to Suwa Arana, Sri Lanka’s first dedicated pediatric palliative care centre, to support pediatric cancer care in Sri Lanka.
The donation was presented during a visit by the team, accompanied by U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie J. Chung last week. The group was welcomed by representatives from Suwa Arana and the Indira Cancer Trust, reinforcing their shared commitment to improving the lives of children battling cancer.
The USA Masters Over-50 team, led by Sanjeewa Weerasinghe, presenting the donation in teh presence of Julie J. Chuung, the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka - Pic by M.A. Pushpa Kumara
The team’s visit commenced with a press briefing at their Healing Garden hosted by the Indira Cancer Trust, followed by a tour of Suwa Arana’s facilities. Ambassador Chung and the cricket team engaged with young patients, offering words of encouragement and solidarity. The $10,000 donation will fund essential services at Suwa Arana, supporting its mission to provide holistic care for children with cancer.
“The commitment in providing comprehensive care and support to children battling cancer is truly commendable. This initiative represents the best of humanitarian efforts, bringing together international collaboration to create lasting change,” Ambassador Chung expressed admiration for the tireless efforts of Suwa Arana and Indira Cancer Trust.
“Every effort counts in the fight against cancer. The generosity of the Masters Cricket USA Over-50 cricket team, alongside the continuous support from Ambassador Chung, reaffirms that together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of these children,” Director of Suwa Arana and member of the U.S. Masters Over-50 cricket Team, Priyanga de Silva emphasised.
“Cricket has the power to unite people beyond the field, and this initiative exemplifies the true spirit of sportsmanship and giving back to the community. The support from the Masters Cricket USA Over-50 World Cup team and Ambassador Chung will go a long way in bringing hope and care to children battling cancer,” Roshan Mahanama, the Trustee of Indira Cancer Trust, Director of Suwa Arana, and Founder of the Roshan Mahanama Trust, highlighted the unifying power of sports in a video note.
Founded in 2016 by former Speaker of the Sri Lankan Parliament Karu Jayasuriya, Indira Cancer Trust is one of Sri Lanka’s largest cancer support organisations. It offers 23 free support programmes, including financial assistance, counselling, patient transport, educational support, hair and wig donation, and awareness campaigns. Suwa Arana, a Place for Healing, was launched in 2023.