The Belize Cancer Society along with the Office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children has unveiled this year's breast cancer survivor photoshoot. The photoshoot was revealed during a virtual launch held this morning. Courtney Menzies reports.
Breast Cancer is the second leading type of cancer in Belize, accounting for one in 6 cases. With a 9% mortality rate, it's a public health priority.
And that was underscored today at the Belize Cancer Society which joined the rest of the world in observing October as Breast Cancer Awareness month.
Every year since 2014, they've organized a photoshoot with breast cancer survivors and this year's version was virtual.
The former Special Envoy - a survivor herself - spoke about the purpose of this annual event.
Kim Simplis-Barrow - Breast Cancer Survivor "The idea behind the photoshoot is intended to empower survivors, give hope to those still fighting the disease, and encourage women to adopt positive, healthy behaviours and lifestyles. Over the years, Belize has seen a significant increase in its cancer cases among women. I believe that the loss of so many lives to cancer due to the lack of timely diagnosis and treatment in Belize are matters of inequity and unequal access that must be addressed. As such we have launched several campaigns aimed at debugging the myths and ending the stigma and discrimination that still exists that often surrounds a cancer diagnosis."
Other survivors shared their testimonials to encourage women who are struggling with the disease, and to spread awareness:
Chelsea Munoz - Breast Cancer Survivor "On December 16, 2018, I was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkin's lymphoma it was really the hardest time in my life, it was the hardest thing I had to go through. But I somehow manage to overcome all the hardships, pain, depression, anxiety. I am now one year four months in remission and I thank god every day that I get to say that. Not everyone can say that and I realize that and I'm so grateful that I have been gifted with this thing call life. But even though I am in remission now the battle never ends and I'm sure every cancer patient can tell you that. There is still that fear, that worry, that it might come back that it is probably still there but I came to realize that is all okay."
Lisa Woodye-Avila- Breast Cancer Survivor "After getting my diagnosis I was 'oh I can go through this; I can do it.' I believe that putting our trust in God, hanging on to our faith and being positive in life as well as having an abundance of family support relieves any challenges we face. The treatments were tough as well it takes a huge toll on our bodies as well as changing our body structure but looking forward to living normal lives with our families gives us hope that I can do anything."
Past president of the Cancer Society, Laura Longsworth reminded women of the need for check-ups:
Laura Longsworth - Past President, Belize Cancer Society "Breast Cancer is one of the leading causes of death for women in Belize. It is estimated that 50 new cases are diagnosed annually, with approximately 16 to 20 women dying. At this time, we are unable to provide information on breast cancer survival rates in Belize. However, our message is always on the importance of early detection since early detection increases the chances of survival beyond the five-year period. We urge all women to do self-breast examinations and at least once a year have a clinical breast examination from a doctor or nurse."
All the services needed to diagnose and manage breast cancer are available in Belize, with the exception of radiation services.
Experts caution that breast cancer does occur in healthy women and also those with no family history of the disease - so, make sure you get tested.
