The Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc. (LCII) hosted its inaugural Breast Cancer Awareness Walk on Saturday October 10th across the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, bringing together cancer survivors, supporters, volunteers, and members of the public in a powerful demonstration of solidarity with individuals and families affected by breast cancer.
Collaborating with LCII for this event were Massy Foundation and Massy Distribution Guyana Inc, SheShines and Oxford Medical.
Beginning at 5:00 a.m., the walk honoured those who have lost their lives to the disease, celebrated survivors, and reinforced the importance of early detection, regular screening, and sustained support for persons affected by cancer.
“Behind every breast cancer diagnosis is a person, a family, and a story of strength, resilience, and courage. We walked together in solidarity to honour those we have lost, celebrate our survivors, and uplift all those affected by breast cancer. We carry their memories with love and hope, while reminding persons that early detection saves lives. 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,” said Dr. Shivani Samlall, Founder and Chairperson of LCII.
A key feature of the event was the opportunity for breast cancer survivors to share their personal experiences, highlighting the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges associated with diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and life after cancer.
Ronetta Williams, who was diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 40, spoke candidly about the difficulties of undergoing chemotherapy and the importance of having a strong support system throughout the cancer journey. She also highlighted a frequently overlooked aspect of cancer care: survivorship.
Although prepared to fight the disease, Williams explained that she had not been adequately prepared for the realities of living beyond treatment. Her experience underscored the need for greater awareness of the challenges survivors may continue to face long after completing treatment.
Her testimony reinforced LCII’s position that cancer care must extend beyond diagnosis and treatment to include ongoing supportive and palliative care, where appropriate. Such care helps patients manage symptoms, address physical and emotional challenges, and maintain the best possible quality of life during illness and beyond treatment.
LCII emphasised that completing treatment does not necessarily mark the end of a person’s cancer journey. Continued emotional, psychological, and physical support remains essential to helping survivors adjust to life after cancer and navigate the challenges that may persist.
In observance of World Mental Health Day, psychologist Sheneva Jacobs also addressed participants on the importance of mental well-being and healthy coping mechanisms when navigating difficult experiences, including a cancer diagnosis. Her contribution highlighted the emotional impact of cancer on patients, survivors, and their families, while reinforcing the importance of accessible psychological support.
The walk also served as a reminder of the need to strengthen public education, encourage regular screening, and improve access to timely diagnosis and treatment. Early detection remains an important component of cancer control, as identifying cancer at an earlier stage can improve treatment options and outcomes.
Advancing Cancer Screening and Prevention
While the awareness walk marked an important milestone, LCII reaffirmed that its commitment to cancer prevention and patient support extends beyond October’s awareness activities.
Throughout the month, the organisation continues to promote early detection through its free mammogram initiative and monthly medical outreaches. These initiatives support screening, public education, and prevention efforts relating to three major cancers affecting communities in Guyana: breast, cervical, and prostate cancers.
Through these activities, LCII encourages individuals to prioritise their health, access available screening services, and seek medical attention when necessary. The organisation also recognises that continued collaboration is needed to strengthen cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and survivorship support across Guyana.
“Transforming Cancer Care in Guyana with Compassion: From Prevention to Survivorship” remains the guiding message behind LCII’s work to promote awareness, improve access to services, and ensure that patients and survivors receive compassionate support throughout their journey.
Dr. Samlall expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Massy Foundation and Massy Distribution Guyana Inc. for their continued support of the organisation since its establishment. She also acknowledged the SheShines Team, Oxford Medical Team, dedicated Lotus members, volunteers, and everyone who participated in the walk, noting that their contributions helped advance the initiative’s message of awareness, solidarity, and collective responsibility.
The Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc. encourages members of the public to support cancer awareness initiatives, prioritise appropriate screening, and extend compassion and understanding to cancer patients and survivors.
Through greater awareness, early detection, accessible care, and sustained support, more lives can be protected and saved.
