Date: 5th April
Location: Gombe Town
Organized by: Santanah Care Foundation, Nigerian Cancer Society, Nigerian Red Cross, SMW Initiative
Event Overview:
On the 5th of April, Santanah Care Foundation, in collaboration with the Nigerian Cancer Society, Nigerian Red Cross, and SMW Initiative, organized a significant event in Gombe Town to mark World Breast Cancer Day. The event aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer, educate women on early detection methods, and empower them with essential knowledge regarding this critical health issue.
Flag Off and Awareness Walk:
The event commenced at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, where participants gathered early in the morning. A vibrant atmosphere filled the air as volunteers, healthcare professionals, and community members prepared for the awareness walk. The walk was officially flagged off, and participants embarked on a trek towards the Emir’s Palace.
During the walk, participants carried banners, T-shirts, face caps and placards with messages promoting breast cancer awareness. The walk served as a mobile awareness campaign, attracting attention from passersby and encouraging discussions about the importance of early detection and regular breast self-examinations.
Awareness Campaign at Emir’s Palace:
Upon reaching the Emir’s Palace, the Santanah Care Foundation team, along with representatives from the Nigerian Cancer Society, Nigerian Red Cross, and SMW Initiative, was warmly received by the Emir and members of the community. A brief presentation was held, where healthcare professionals and foundation representatives addressed the gathering. The focus was on educating women about the symptoms of breast cancer, the importance of regular self-examinations, and the need to seek medical advice promptly if any abnormalities are detected.
Informational pamphlets and brochures were distributed to the attendees, providing step-by-step instructions on how to perform breast self-examinations. The interactive session allowed women to ask questions and share their concerns, fostering a supportive environment for open dialogue about breast cancer.
Empowerment Session at Maternity Gidan Magani:
Following the awareness campaign at the Emir’s Palace, the team proceeded to Maternity Gidan Magani. Here, the focus was on empowering women in the maternity ward with comprehensive knowledge about breast cancer. A detailed session was conducted by healthcare professionals, covering topics such as the causes of breast cancer, risk factors, preventive measures, and the significance of early detection.
The women were encouraged to share their experiences and concerns, creating a supportive network among attendees. The session emphasized the importance of regular medical check-ups and provided information on available healthcare resources for breast cancer screening and treatment in Gombe Town.
Conclusion:
The World Breast Cancer Day event organized by Santanah Care Foundation, in collaboration with the Nigerian Cancer Society, Nigerian Red Cross, and SMW Initiative, concluded successfully at Maternity Gidan Magani. The event was a significant step towards raising awareness about breast cancer and empowering women in the community with the knowledge and tools needed for early detection and prevention.
Santanah Care Foundation remains committed to continuing its efforts in breast cancer awareness and education, ensuring that women in Gombe Town and beyond are equipped with the information and support necessary to combat this prevalent health issue. Together, with our collaborators, we can make a difference and work towards a future where breast cancer is detected early and treated effectively.
Acknowledgments:
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the School of Nursing and Midwifery, the Emir’s Palace, Maternity Gidan Magani, Nigerian Cancer Society, Nigerian Red Cross, SMW Initiative, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and all participants for their invaluable support in making this event a success. Your dedication and commitment to the cause are truly commendable.
Santanah Care Foundation looks forward to organizing more events and initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of our community.
