In April, EuropaColon Slovenia held its second Beyond the Horizon (Onkraj Obzorja) event in Portorož. The educational and social meeting brought together more than 40 participants—patients living with digestive cancers, their families, supporters, and healthcare professionals.

Living with cancer can feel like navigating an unpredictable sea. While each journey is different, being equipped with the right knowledge, support, and connections can help bring clarity and comfort.

The event’s goal was to inform and empower attendees while creating a space for meaningful dialogue and mutual support.

Medical and Nutritional Insight

Dr Marija Ignjatović, an oncology specialist, opened the educational sessions with an overview of treatment pathways at the Institute of Oncology in Ljubljana.

Dr Irena Hren, a clinical dietitian, provided practical advice on maintaining balanced nutrition during and after treatment for digestive cancers—an area of frequent concern for many patients.

Dr Beno Arnejčič, psychologist and expert in medical hypnosis, gave a thought-provoking presentation, Being Human to One Another as a Resilient Support. He explored the unconscious mind’s role in coping and healing, combining theory with a live demonstration.

A Story of Strength and Survival

The emotional centre of the event came from Stajka Skrbinšek, who shared her personal story of living with stage IV colorectal cancer. Diagnosed at 49, she has undergone eight surgeries, extensive chemotherapy, and biological treatments. Through immense resilience, she challenged taboos around expressing fear and vulnerability and wrote a book about her journey: The New Me – When Cancer Is Just a Sea Creature (Nova Jaz – Ko je rak samo še morska žival).

Mental Health and Emotional Resilience

A roundtable on the psychological aspects of illness brought together healthcare professionals, Stajka, and her daughter. They discussed how emotions, beliefs, and relationships can influence treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Sound Healing and Relaxation

Zala and Žiga introduced participants to sound therapy. A “sound bath” experience offered deep relaxation, with evidence suggesting that certain frequencies may reduce inflammation, stimulate endorphins, and support immune function.

Shared Movement and Awareness

The event concluded with a one-hour walk along the coast, contributing to the DiCE Step by Step to 100 Million Steps campaign via the DiCE StepApp®—a symbolic and physical reminder of progress and community.

Informational Resources

All participants received the latest two issues of KOLOSKOP, the association’s newsletter, covering stomach, pancreatic, colorectal, and oesophageal cancers. The newsletters are also available online in Slovenian:
🔗 https://www.europacolon.si/koloskop.html

Voices from the Event

“Excellent lectures, wonderful and very warm-hearted experts. A perfect ending with the seaside walk.” – Marjetka
“Together we are stronger.” – Anica & Štefan
“The energy, atmosphere, and interaction were incredible. The content was informative. I recommend it to anyone who wants more—for themselves or their loved ones.” – Participant
“The Beyond the Horizon event exceeded all expectations—with its professionalism, warmth, and heartfelt support. It brought me invaluable insights, new connections, priceless realisations, and most importantly, the feeling that I am not alone.” – Tina
“When faced with a cancer diagnosis, people look for anything to stay afloat. Sometimes the lifelines are invisible—but they’re there. Events like this help you see the shore.” – Samo
“Thank you for organising an event that helped improve my wellbeing and deepened my understanding of how to live better with the disease.” – Marijana
“It was my first time attending. I found it very interesting—there wasn’t enough time. All the speakers had so much more to share.” – Participant
“We really appreciate your work and dedication. You’re excellent!” – The Leban family

At EuropaColon Slovenia, we believe progress happens when patients, professionals, families, and organisations come together. We thank DiCE and our wider network of supporters for making this event possible. We look forward to the next opportunity to connect, learn, and grow—together.

Further details and photos:
https://www.europacolon.si/dogodek-onkraj-obzorja-april-2025-reportaza.html

Author:

Metka Glas