RAISING awareness for breast cancer, First Lady Mrs. Arya Ali joined Impressions and Ignite News in the unveiling of the recently transformed ‘I Love Guyana’ sign, in Kingston Georgetown. This was done under the theme, ‘Make your mark in support of breast cancer awareness.’
Delivering the feature address, Mrs. Ali stated that as we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026, we are reminded that behind every diagnosis is a woman, a mother, a daughter, a sister and a friend, and behind every story of empowerment, is resilience and hope.
According to Mrs. Ali, this year’s theme, ‘Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters,’ serves as a reminder that breast cancer impacts millions of women worldwide. She emphasised that no two experiences are the same, as each journey brings its own challenges, fears, sacrifices, and moments of grief.
“Today, we honour those who continue to fight this disease, celebrate the courage of survivors, and remember the love of those whose lives we’ve lost,” the First Lady said.
Looking at the statistics put forward by the World Health Organization, Mrs. Ali said that breast cancer remains the most common type of cancer among women around the globe, with approximately 2.43 million women diagnosed and more than 600,000 lives lost in recent times.
“Yet, amid these sobering realities, the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, has indicated that breast cancer is no longer the leading cancer in Guyana, which is a significant development that underscores the importance of continuing awareness, early detection, timely diagnosis, and access to quality treatment,” she underscored.
Further, she said, “This process reminds us that when cancer is detected early, the patients receive the care they need…lives can be saved. I therefore encourage every woman, regardless of age or background, to become familiar with her breast health, recognise unusual changes, understand [your] personal risk factors, and seek medical attention promptly when something is not being seen right.”
According to Mrs. Ali, we must continue to dispel the fear, stigma, and misconceptions that too often prevent women from seeking the care they need.
The First Lady said she remains deeply committed to advocating for the health, dignity, and the well-being of our women and girls.
This responsibility, however, extends beyond the healthcare profession. It requires families, communities, organisations, and each of us to create an environment where women feel empowered to prioritise their health and have support throughout their journey, the First Lady said.
“This October, I encourage us all to move beyond awareness and embrace meaningful action. Let us encourage the women in our lives to seek medical advice when needed, to support those undergoing treatment and stand alongside our survivors as they rebuild their lives. Let us continue to raise awareness, inspire action, and strengthen our collective resolve to fight breast cancer because every story is unique, every journey matters, and no one should ever walk that journey alone,” she said.
