The Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc. (LCII) has called for continued support for breast cancer survivors beyond treatment, following its inaugural awareness walk across the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge on Saturday.
Cancer survivors, supporters, volunteers and members of the public participated in the walk, which began at 5 am in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event was organised in collaboration with the Massy Foundation, Massy Distribution Guyana Inc., SheShines and Oxford Medical.
According to a release from LCII, the activity honoured persons who had died from breast cancer, celebrated survivors and highlighted the importance of screening, timely care and sustained support.
“No one should have to face cancer alone, and together, we can help ensure that no one is lost because they lacked access to screening, timely care, or support,” founder and chairperson Dr Shivani Samlall said.
Among those sharing their experiences was breast cancer survivor Ronetta Williams, who was diagnosed before the age of 40. Williams spoke about the difficulties of chemotherapy and the importance of a strong support system.
The release said that although Williams had been prepared to fight the disease, she had not been adequately prepared for life after treatment. Her account highlighted the physical, emotional and psychological challenges that can persist during recovery.
LCII said completing treatment did not necessarily mark the end of a person’s cancer journey and that continued support was needed to help survivors adjust.
The organisation also stressed the role of supportive care and, where appropriate, palliative care in managing symptoms and maintaining patients’ quality of life.
As the walk coincided with World Mental Health Day, psychologist Sheneva Jacobs addressed participants on mental well-being and coping with difficult experiences, including a cancer diagnosis. She highlighted the emotional effects on patients, survivors and their families and the importance of accessible psychological support.
LCII said its work extended beyond October’s awareness activities and included a free mammogram initiative and monthly medical outreaches addressing breast, cervical and prostate cancers.
The walk follows earlier community screening exercises by the organisation. Kiskadee Watch reported in August that 59 persons from Diamond and surrounding East Bank Demerara communities received cancer screening, diagnostic services and health education during an outreach conducted with the Ministry of Health and Oxford Medical.
That exercise included clinical breast examinations, Pap smears and human papillomavirus testing, with colposcopies and cervical biopsies available for persons requiring further evaluation. Lotus also emphasised the need to ensure that persons understood their results and remained connected to further care.
For its October mammogram initiative, the organisation is asking interested persons to submit their names and contact numbers by calling 763-7332 or 693-3273. A team member will then contact them to begin the screening process.
Samlall thanked the collaborating organisations, Lotus members and volunteers for supporting the walk. LCII urged the public to access appropriate screening and extend support and understanding to cancer patients and survivors.
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