The Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc., in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Massy Foundation, hosted its inaugural “Stories of Strength: Celebrating Survivors” event on Sunday in observance of World Cancer Survivors Day 2026, honouring 18 cancer survivors whose courage and resilience continue to inspire communities across Guyana.
The event brought together survivors, healthcare professionals, government officials, volunteers, corporate partners, and supporters to celebrate survivorship, raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection, and recognise the journeys of individuals who have overcome cancer.
Delivering the feature address, Dr. Shivani Samlall, Chief Executive Officer of the Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc., paid tribute to survivors and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to improving cancer outcomes throughout Guyana.
“Today is about our survivors. Thank you for your courage and your strength. Thank you for showing us what resilience looks like. Thank you for reminding us that even in the face of fear, uncertainty, and adversity, hope can prevail,” Dr. Samlall said.
She explained that the Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc. was established on the belief that no one should die from preventable cancers and no one should face cancer alone. Drawing from her years in healthcare, Dr. Samlall highlighted the challenges many individuals face, including delayed screenings, late diagnoses, lack of information, and difficulties accessing treatment and support services.
“The Lotus flower represents strength through adversity, hope through hardship, and the ability to thrive despite difficult circumstances. In many ways, it reflects the journey of the survivors we celebrate today,” she noted.
The organisation’s mission focuses on education, prevention, early detection, advocacy, and support, while complementing the Ministry of Health’s efforts to reduce the national burden of cancer.
Among the event’s most moving moments were the personal testimonies shared by cancer survivors.
Desiree Edghill, a cancer survivor and advocate, recounted her diagnosis with leiomyosarcoma in 2017. Despite having dedicated much of her professional life to caring for others through HIV-related work, she suddenly found herself navigating an unfamiliar and challenging journey as a patient.
“Cancer changed my life, but it also strengthened my commitment to helping others. Today, I continue advocating for cancer patients and supporting individuals facing similar challenges,” Edghill shared.
Prostate cancer survivor Aubrey Knight used the platform to encourage men, particularly those aged 40 and above, to prioritise regular screening. He emphasised that modern screening methods now include simple blood tests, making early detection more accessible than ever.
The significance of the initiative’s work was underscored by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, who commended the Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc. and urged the organisation to make the survivorship celebration an annual national observance.
The Minister noted that celebrating survivors is not only an opportunity to honour those who have overcome cancer but also a powerful tool for promoting early screening and encouraging individuals currently facing the disease.
“Seeing survivors is proof that cancer can be beaten. Their stories help replace fear with hope and motivate others to seek screening and treatment early,” Dr Anthony said.
He also highlighted the Government of Guyana’s comprehensive efforts to reduce the country’s cancer burden, including its ongoing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme. Dr Anthony noted that increasing HPV vaccine coverage from the current 69 per cent to 90 per cent and sustaining those levels over five years would place Guyana on a clear path toward eliminating cervical cancer.
The event recognized 18 cancer survivors, whose stories of perseverance, faith, and determination served as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness, prevention, support, and timely access to care.
To further commemorate World Cancer Survivor Day, Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc. partnered with the authorities of the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara Harbour Bridge to illuminate the bridge with lavender as a tribute to cancer survivors and to support individuals currently undergoing treatment.
The Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc. expressed gratitude to all partners and supporters who contributed to the success of the event, especially to its title sponsor, the Massy Foundation for its commitment to improving the health and well-being of Guyanese. Through its support of impactful community initiatives, the Foundation continues to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families across Guyana.”
Other supporters included Tristar, Allied Trading Incorporated, Harbour Tugs Guyana Inc., Cara Lodge, Vantarock Studio, and other individuals such as Mary Ross and Melisa Kumar.
Also in attendance were the Regional Executive Officer for Region Four, Juan Edghill Jr.; and Senior Manager at Massy Distribution Inc. and Chairperson of Massy Foundation Teisha Milner and Jean Cristophel of Expertise France.
The Lotus Cancer Initiative’s leadership team includes distinguished healthcare professionals such as Dr. Vasha Bachan, Public Health Specialist; Dr. William Adu Krow, former Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Representative for Guyana; Dr. Oneka Scott, Maternal and Child Health Officer at the Ministry of Health; and Dr. Dianele Drepaul, Chronic Disease Coordinator at the Ministry of Health.
As Guyana continues strengthening its fight against cancer, the Lotus Cancer Initiative remains committed to ensuring that no one faces cancer alone and that more lives are saved through prevention, education, early detection, and compassionate support.
