BCHC Supports Breast Cancer Awareness
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and, under the patronage of Mrs. Margaret Fergusson, Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre is rallying support for the cause to save lives.
This annual campaign is held each October in an effort to increase the awareness of the disease and reduce the incidents of breast cancer by distributing cancer education and prevention information, thereby empowering individuals to make better choices regarding health and wellness.
A spokesperson said, “After lung cancer, breast cancer accounts for the majority of deaths in women worldwide and the disease affects one in eight women. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps required to detect the disease in its early stages.
“Monthly self-breast checks should be a regular part of personal care for women beginning at age 20. Self-checks provide a means of getting to know what’s normal, and increase the likelihood of detecting unusual changes.
“Screening increases the chances of detecting certain cancers early, when they are most likely to be curable. Visiting a physician for regular breast exams is important, and women over the age of 40 should schedule regular, annual digital mammograms.
“Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre is committed to equal opportunity and access, and therefore provides free mammograms, for women who do not have health insurance, not only during the month of October but throughout the year, as part of their Equal Access Fund.
“For more information or to book an appointment, call 236-1001.
“Breast Cancer Awareness Month raises awareness around the importance of screening and the early detection of breast cancer. Awarded the Breast Imaging Centre of Excellence by the American College of Radiology in 2013, Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre is inviting the community to become PINK Ambassadors by supporting one of the many fundraising events and by talking to the women in their lives about the importance of early detection.
Those wishing to support the cause as PINK Ambassadors can do so by participating in a variety of activities, including:
- October 1, 2014: Launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month – Opening ceremony at 12.00pm, 46 Point Finger Road. All are welcome to attend.
- October 3, 2014: Wear It PINK Denim Day – Get your organization or school involved by wearing pink or denim and make a donation. To participate, email glandy@chc.bm.
- October 8, 2014: Gorham’s THINK PINK Ladies Night – Shop from 6.30 to 9.00pm for a store-wide savings of 20 percent. $10 donation entry fee.
- October 17, 2014: Annual Friday Fish Fry – Take out or eat in at Christ Church in Warwick from 4.30 through 8.30pm for $20 per dinner. Tickets can be purchased in advance from Keith’s Kitchen, BAA Parking Lot, Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre, or online at chc.bm.
- October 22, 2014: BF&M Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk [rain date is October 27] – BF&M Health Fair at Barr’s Park begins at 5.00pm, while the walk starts at 6.00pm. The registration fee of $30 can be processed via racedayworld.com, or at BF&M, Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre or The Sportseller. Walk packs will be available while supplies last. Schools should participate through School Spirit.
“Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre appreciates the partnerships and ongoing support from the community. Several individuals, groups and companies have come forward and will be hosting events open to the public, which will raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Awareness.
“Amongst those are North Village Community Club, who will wear pink at all games for the entire month as a show of support for this cause, and TKHair, who will hold a cut-a-thon on October 13 with all proceeds going to the cause. Another popular and well supported fundraiser is Girls Night In where girlfriends get together and host an event to fundraise and celebrate friendship.
“To register for Girls Night In, visit chc.bm.”
Tara Soares, Executive Director of Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre said, “Since its inception 18 years ago, we have seen the community rally behind this important cause. Breast cancer has impacted many lives in Bermuda, directly or indirectly, and we appreciate the community support as we continue our fight against this disease.”
Glen Gibbons, Chairman of Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre, similarly expressed his appreciation, saying, “As we strive towards a healthy community that is free of cancer and disease, we are extremely grateful for the ongoing support and dedication of our volunteers, donors, and the community at large.
“This year, we welcome the support from various organisations who want to be a part of our efforts this month. Awareness and prevention are key.”
“All funds raised will support the Centre’s charitable outreach initiatives including the Equal Access Fund, the Bermuda Cancer and Health Scholarship, and the Education and Awareness Programmes.
“The Equal Access Fund provides financial support for uninsured and underinsured men and women to receive recommended cancer screening and diagnostic services available at Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre, while the Scholarship provides financial awards to Bermudian students pursuing a career in in the Health Care industry.
“Our Education and Awareness programmes provide free cancer prevention information to the community.
“For more information about these initiatives, or other activities happening during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, please visit Facebook or the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre’s website.”
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