Armogan says; advises persons to be more conscious about their health, do regular screening

IN a continuous effort to sensitise the population about breast cancer, the Regional Democratic Council of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) teamed up with several governmental and non-governmental organisations to support the Berbice Chapter of the Cancer Society in their annual awareness rally, under the theme: “Early Detection, Early Cure.”
The event which took place in New Amsterdam on Wednesday, started at the Tacama Turn and culminated at the Esplanade Park, where regional and municipal officials addressed a large gathering, which included members of the Guyana Police Force.

Regional Chairman, David Armogan told the Guyana Chronicle that the RDC has always been part of efforts to create awareness about cancer.
“We at the RDC level recognised the importance of joining hands with the Cancer Society in ensuring that our women and men are aware of the dangers of living with undetected breast, and other forms of cancers,” Armogan said.

He also stressed the need for everyone to take cognisance of the fact that the 2023 theme was chosen with the sole purpose of ensuring that people take advantage of health services.
“With the advancement of medicine, doctors are more equipped to detect and treat patients, but people must demonstrate the willingness to seek medical attention,” he said.
Regional Vice-Chairman, Zamal Hussain, in emphasising the importance of early detection, shared that a few years ago cancer struck in his family, and it was devastating for the family members.

He recalled: “My mother died of cancer, but not breast cancer; nevertheless, the disease has different forms and I do believe that I should use my personal experience to talk to the people in my community, and encourage them not to remain silent; it would be better if everyone (men and women) can have early screening.”

THE PAINS OF A WIFE

The Mayor of New Amsterdam, Wainwright McIntosh, in his address to the gathering, said: “In 2014, I witnessed the pains of my wife (Shoba McIntosh), and it was not easy watching her laying on the hospital bed, as doctors gave up hope; however, through treatment and perseverance, she’s still alive today. It’s truly a miracle that she is still with us, even though she suffered a relapse in September 2023.”

Students, religious groups, High Court and Banks DIH Staffers, nurses, The Seventh Day Adventist pathfinders, members of the Police Steel Orchestra and teachers were among the many groups that graced the event, where these strong messages were shared.

In delivering words of gratitude, the President of the Cancer Society (Berbice Chapter), Carmen Pluck, thanked the Regional Executive Officer, Narindra Persaud and RDC Heads for their support and effort in motivating other groups to follow.