BRADES, Montserrat – Sixty more women on Montserrat will now be able to receive free mammograms following another successful fundraising campaign organized by Caribscan and the Pink Ribbon Charity.
The fifth annual Pink Ribbon Walk ended on Saturday evening after more than 190 men, women and children took the almost one-hour trek from Lookout Community Centre to The Lyme in Brades, where another 100 people were waiting. During a short closing ceremony, organizer Sonia Charles of Caribscan said this had been quite an emotional week as she was touched by the tremendous support that she’d received at each event created to bring awareness to breast health and to raise money for the Pink Ribbon Charity.
The Pink Ribbon Charity Barbecue on Wednesday kicked off the activities with 62 people enjoying a tasty meal at Olveston House. The charity had initially planned for 45 people but as the demand grew they were able to sell more tickets, the proceeds of which go to the fund. The Breakfast & Cake Sale on Saturday morning was also well supported by the community.
To date more than 120 women have benefited from the fund and over the next few weeks, 60 more women will be able to travel to Antigua to have the mammograms conducted at the Belmont Clinic. Charles expressed thanks to Dr Eumel Samuel and his team from the clinic who have given the charity a 50% reduction in fees to allow the women of Montserrat to get the tests which could save lives.
The Ministry of Communications & Works was also commended for its generous offer of a $100 roundtrip ferry fare for women holding vouchers to take get the screening in Antigua.
Honourable Minister of Health Delmaude Ryan told the gathering as there is “still no clear cause for breast cancer, the answer to its control lies in our hands. Literally. Early detection, through self-examination, clinical screening, and mammography screening have proven positive results.”
Minister Ryan also said the “Government and people of Montserrat are very grateful for the partnership of Caribscan and the Belmont Clinic, in providing opportunities for women on Montserrat to have mammogram tests through this initiative. The Government of Montserrat, through the Ministry of Health pledges its continued commitment to any initiative that promotes breast cancer awareness and control. We will continue to strengthen our public health systems to increase programmes that contribute to total healthcare to include breast cancer awareness in Montserrat.”
Sonia Charles commended the board of the Pink Ribbon Charity and all of the companies and individuals who donated their time and resources to making the week a success. This included John and Yvette Ryan of The Lyme who has been an annual supporter of the walk and fundraising BINGO, Fly Montserrat, the Ministry of Health, Education & Social Services, the Ministry of Communications and Works, The Montserrat Reporter, MNI Alive, ZJB Radio Montserrat, and Goldenmedia.
Women are encouraged to call 496-6248 if they already possess vouchers or wish to register to receive one in order to get their mammograms done.
Find photos from the Pink Ribbon Week on www.facebook.com/discovermni.
