By Kruah Thompson
The ministry of gender, children, and social protection in collaboration with the Office of First Lady Madam Clar Marie Weah has launched one-day breast cancer awareness here.
The awareness was launched on Wednesday, October 27, 2021, at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville outside Monrovia under the theme, “Celebrating survivors and honoring lost loved ones.”
It was characterized by a discussion on breast cancer followed by a live exercise session that included high-intensity training led by President George Manneh Weah.
The awareness also covered free breast cancer screening, referral pathway system, preventive methods, and a support network.
During the exercises, a total of US$20,000 was raised to help prevent breast cancer thru early detection and to support those who went through the free breast cancer screening and were diagnosed positive.
President Weah described breast cancer as fatal and “We all” most join together in awareness to fight it.
He thanked the Minister of Health Doctor Wilhelmina Jallah, who operates a private health center that exclusively addresses women’s health, including breast cancer, for ensuring all necessary mechanisms are in place at her facility for people who cannot financially afford to seek medication abroad.
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President Weah vowed that as Chief Feminist of Liberia, “I’m going to do my best in the fight against breast cancer here in Liberia.”
Also, First Lady Weah noted that breast cancer in Liberia is real, adding “It is affecting our mothers, daughters and sisters especially, some of our friends.”
She said this was the main reason why the awareness was characterized by street parade and assembling to bring the situation to public glance in order to save lives.
She acknowledged survivors and advocates for their hard work in raising money and awareness to fight the disease.
However, Mrs. Weah urged all Liberians to be vigilant about breast cancer, cautioning “If you notice any change in your breast, consult a doctor.”
She said the new Liberia that all citizens are striving for must engender a holistic approach to seek health and wellness for all, noting the awareness is to shine a spotlight on breast cancer.
“I believe in my heart that Liberia cannot be [relaxed] until we stand in solidarity and support breast cancer survivors and push awareness on a daily basis”, the First Lady underscored.
She said it is not by accident that the country is on the move, seeking to re-ignite the revolutionary spirit of awareness about breast cancer.
“I did not have an option; I have to be here today to plead with all of you to take the awareness of breast cancer seriously; indeed I am glad that I’m here with you today.”
She said when a woman’s health is at stake, Liberia’s future is at stake, adding that nothing can be done without faith and hope, and medical experts advise that early detection goes a long way in saving lives.
https://thenewdawnliberia.com/ministry-of-gender-identifies-with-hospitals-and-communities/ Editing by Jonathan Browne
