More than two decades ago, Imran Khan embarked on the journey of realizing his dream of making cancer care accessible to the people of his country, regardless of their ability to pay. Hence, began the story of enduring love of a son for his mother and the passion of a nation.

The inspiration to build Shaukat Khanum Memorial cancer Hospital (SKMCH&RC) came after his mother, Mrs. Shaukat Khanum, succumbed to cancer in 1985. During his mothers illness he also witnessed the plight of poor cancer patients in the hospitals of Pakistan and deeply felt the need for a specialized cancer centre in his country. Being a developing country where the majority do not have access to even elementary health care facilities, cancer was considered the ultimate symbol of hopelessness. After receiving overwhelming support from generous donors, SKMCH&RC in Lahore opened doors to patients on December 29, 1994 and since then it is providing financially supported treatment to 75% of its cancer patients.