EXCITING experiences and valuable expertise were shared on Saturday at the National Library during Recover Guyana’s Comprehensive Wellness and Well-being dialogue. This interactive event featured various experts discussing key topics related to cancer care, awareness, and early detection. Sponsored by One Communications, Pollo Tropical, the Guyana Tourism Authority, and Professional Paint and Designs, the event facilitated an engaging exchange between speakers and attendees.

The event brought together a diverse group of speakers, including medical professionals, psychologists, and diplomats, each offering unique perspectives on cancer care and survivorship. Dave Lalltoo, President of Recover Guyana, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to cancer survivors, mentioning that some received prizes and tours to Essequibo.

British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller, opened the floor with a powerful discussion on Cancer Survivor Advocacy. She emphasised the crucial role of peer support in the cancer journey, stating, “You play an absolutely critical role. Yes, you have doctors and other people who really need to talk to each other, but nobody can talk to you about cancer other than yourselves.”

Miller stressed the importance of early detection, urging attendees to promote self-examinations and awareness within their communities. She also addressed the stigma surrounding certain cancers, calling for collective action to reduce it and encouraging survivors to advocate for policy changes and mental health support.

Dr. Surendra Persaud focused on the importance of early detection of breast cancer. He addressed cultural challenges that often hinder proactive health measures, noting, “There are cultural challenges that we have dragged over here from our ancestors.”

Dr. Persaud emphasised the need for a shift in mindset to prioritise health and early detection. He further shared some striking statistics about early detection, with survival rates being far higher the earlier cancer is detected.

Mrs. Naudya Hoosein introduced the concept of “green therapy” or ecotherapy as a complementary approach to cancer care. She explained, “Spending time in gardens or green spaces significantly reduces stress,” offering cancer patients and survivors a respite from the rigours of treatment.

Hoosein shared her personal experience, stating, “Seeing the plants come back to life, it gave me a sense of renewal,” and encouraged attendees to start or continue nurturing gardens as a form of healing.

The psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis was addressed by Mrs. Mahadevi Gidhary, who spoke about the difficulty of accepting such news. She reassured attendees, saying, “We’re not guilty of a diagnosis. No one should be,” and encouraged a focus on proactive measures.

Gidhary highlighted the importance of self-monitoring as a form of empowerment, noting, “Some of you may say that you are powerless. But you’re doing one thing. Monitoring yourself. How can that be powerless?”

Mrs. Anastasia Sanford discussed the importance of breast cancer awareness among senior women. She stressed the need for age-appropriate educational materials and support groups, stating, “Facilitated support groups offer senior women a means to share experiences and gain insights about breast cancer.”

Stafford concluded with an encouraging message: “Stay close to your community of women. Encourage and motivate one another to prioritise our breast health.”

Dr. Jonanne Bejaimal provided an intriguing perspective on the connection between oral health and overall health, particularly in relation to cancer. She explained that both stem from inflammation in the body, stating, “Inflammation predisposes us,” and “There is a link that has a relationship in between inflammation and oral health.” This unique angle highlighted the holistic nature of health and the importance of comprehensive care in cancer prevention and treatment.

The event not only provided valuable information but also offered practical support to cancer survivors, with each speaker answering questions and interacting with visitors. There is more to come throughout the month of October however, with Recover Guyana having a number of activities chartered for the month.