BREAST cancer is like a journey over a rough sea in the presence of a strong wind.
Over the years, Penang Adventist Hospital has a been loyal advocate in educating and spreading awareness and key messages on the importance of breast screening among not only women, but men as well.
This year, in recognition of breast cancer awareness month, PAH has led by example once again, through its latest initiative of offering free mammogram screenings for 200 women from the B40 group in Penang.
The theme that PAH has taken on for this year is ‘The Pink Movement’, with a key message that goes by like this, ‘Don’t Delay, Don’t Hesitate’.
PAH president and chief executive officer Ronald Koh said the hospital had earlier committed to pledging an offer of one free mammogram screening for a deserving woman in the community for every RM500 donation channelled to the hospital’s cancer fund.
“We have engaged philanthropists and the public to support this project.
“I am therefore pleased to announce that we have raised more than RM109,000 so far under our cancer fund.
“It is also a pleasure to inform that all the 200 women have been identified to undergo the mammogram screening,” Koh said during ‘The Pink Movement’ press conference in conjunction with breast cancer awareness month at PAH today.
He also added the hospital had been working closely with 19 assemblymen to make this initiative a success.
“Thank you to all the 19 assemblymen’s service centres for their hard work and coordination,” he added.
While the free mammogram screening is just one of the key elements under ‘The Pink Movement’ initiative, the hospital is also committed to organise breast cancer-related campaigns through infographics, awareness videos and health talks via the hospital’s social media platforms throughout this month.
State Agrotech and Food Security, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman Dr Norlela Ariffin applauded PAH for this worthy cause during such a difficult period.
“Prevention is always better than cure. To all the men and women out there, it is important that you do early screening to have a better understanding of your bodies.
“Sometimes, you may seem like a very healthy person on the outside, but it may not necessarily be the same on the inside.
“What PAH has been doing so far as an immediate advocate to educate and spread awareness of the importance of early screening is truly important for the local community here in Penang.
“I sincerely hope that they will keep up with their good work and continue to inspire many lives out there.
“At the end of the day, what cancer patients or survivors need is that little push to tell them that everything will be fine,” Norlela added.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian