By Sean Lena
The February 2010 issue of Reach to Recovery’s Bloom featured Partnership affiliate Patient Friends Society’s October Awareness Day in Jerusalem. Bloom is a monthly breast cancer-focused magazine that promotes the exchange of current information on training, advocacy, research, volunteer, and peer support. It allows women who have lived through breast cancer to tell their stories and share their experiences with breast cancer. Click here to read the full article.
Read more!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Aida, a New Short Breast Cancer Awareness Film Featuring Samah Anwar
By Niveen Torky, Community Program Director, Breast Cancer Foundation of Egypt
We are proud to share Aida, an emotional story of a woman confronting her fears about breast cancer, which underscores the importance of early detection. The 14-minute film is in Arabic with English subtitles, features Egyptian actress Samah Anwar as Aida and was funded in part by the Partnership’s Community Advocacy Grant program. Click here to view the video.
Read more!
We are proud to share Aida, an emotional story of a woman confronting her fears about breast cancer, which underscores the importance of early detection. The 14-minute film is in Arabic with English subtitles, features Egyptian actress Samah Anwar as Aida and was funded in part by the Partnership’s Community Advocacy Grant program. Click here to view the video.
Read more!
Monday, December 7, 2009
The Power of One: Bringing Together the Many “Moroccos” to fight against Breast Cancer
By Suzanne Baazet, Vital Voices Local Advocacy Coordinator for Morocco, Coordinator for the October 2009 Forum for Leadership-Building Against Breast Cancer in Casablanca, Morocco
Participants from 2009 Forum for Leadership-Building Against Breast Cancer, Casablanca, MoroccoWhen my Moroccan mother-in-law was diagnosed with breast cancer two and a half years ago, I saw first-hand the challenges that patients in Morocco face to obtain accurate information, to create networks of support, and to access quality medical care. After seeing her experience, I vowed that someday I would find a way to personally contribute to the important cause of improving the situation, both medically and socially, of women with breast cancer in Morocco. I was honored to have the opportunity to organize last month the first Forum for Leadership-Building Against Breast Cancer in Casablanca. Associations and advocates play such an important role in Morocco. They raise awareness about the disease and ensure that women have access to screening. In the very sad cases, where women are rejected by their husbands as a result of their illness, the associations serve as shelters and support mechanisms. The opportunity to bring together a group of associations and advocates to provide them with important training about the disease and about how to more effectively manage their associations was a dream come true, but I knew that if we really wanted to help women from all of Morocco, it would not be an easy task.
Having lived in Morocco for many years, one of the things that always amazes me is just how many different “Moroccos” there are. I live in an urban area, which could easily be mistaken for a European city. It is a stark contrast to the mountainous and rural areas where running water and electricity are much-coveted luxuries. If the geographical and socio-economic divides aren’t enough, Morocco has another layer of complexity, which are its languages. People from Casablanca and Rabat tend to prefer French, other urbanites Arabic, those from small villages in the High Atlas or the Rif are most comfortable in their native Amazigh, and in the Northern parts of the country it is much easier to get around in Spanish than any other language. So how do you bring together all of these diverse contingencies to tackle such an important issue as breast cancer?
This was the challenge we faced in organizing the Forum. Many organizations who work in Morocco are never able to overcome the geographical, linguistic, and socioeconomic barriers that prevent people from coming together. At other NGO trainings I have attended, Casablanca and Rabat, which represent only 15% of the country’s population, represent over 90% of the participants. I made it my personal mission to ensure that our training was different. I know that breast cancer touches everyone in Morocco, and I knew that there was an important need to create a network between those who have more access to resources for screening and treatment with those who don’t. We set out to bring all of Morocco together in one room to get all of Morocco thinking about breast cancer.
It wasn’t an easy endeavor, but in the end we were successful. We had every major urban center and many rural areas represented at our Forum. There were men who came to discuss the important role that men need to play in supporting women who have the disease. There were young women interested in running awareness campaigns in high schools. There were psychiatrists interested in starting the first formal patient support groups in Morocco. There were survivors who want to reach out in the most remote areas to ensure early detection and prevention. No matter how diverse the group was, and even though many struggled to find a common language to communicate, the amount of synergy and collaboration that the group identified was impressive. They came up with creative ways that different associations can support each other and continue to collaborate together after the forum. After seeing so many leaders of associations from around Morocco so excited about playing a role in fighting against this disease, I now feel that in my own small way I have been able to contribute to ensuring that Moroccan women win in the fight against breast cancer. Read more!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Stronger Than Breast Cancer
By Enas Abdo M. Mohsen, Sana’a, Yemen
Sometimes in life we work hard, prepare for everything to have satisfying results, and expect everything to go perfectly because we tried to do our best. We are shocked when the opposite happens. Unfortunately, that is exactly what has happened with me. (Don’t worry it isn’t so bad.)
After the success we had in the first stage of our breast cancer awareness campaign sessions for women and the great participation by our target group, I expected girls in secondary schools to be interested and excited with our sessions, too. So what happened?
Actually, many of the girls in our target group are very good girls. They want to learn and improve themselves; however, some of them don’t respect anyone. Maybe they are teenagers and don’t think about this disease or feel sympathy for the patients who are suffering. Life for them is just fun, laughs, and good times with friends.
On October 15, we conducted an awareness session in Al-Salam Secondary School for Girls, one of the most famous secondary schools in Sana’a. We planned everything to make the session successful. When the health educator began her presentation some girls started laughing and making noise. The school’s manager stood up and told them to stop. They listened to her but after she left the classroom they started laughing and making noise again. This time they didn’t listen to anyone, not even their teachers. They told them, "If you don’t want to listen please go out and allow others to listen to the session.” Nothing worked. We were very angry and decided to leave. The teachers apologized and promised they would punish the students. Because of the students’ reaction, the health educator said, “How can we do sessions in other schools, Enas? That’s very embarrassing and unacceptable. It’s a waste of time.”
Throughout this sad conversation between the health educator and me, one girl named Shadia stood up and shouted at the other girls. “Please shut up! I had breast cancer two years ago. I had a mastectomy and my doctor told me, ‘If you had detected the disease earlier, you would not have needed to remove your breast. You know why I didn’t detect the disease early? Because I didn’t know that I had breast cancer. When I felt pain in my breast I was too shy to tell anyone, even my mother. Now I know about early detection and everything about breast cancer but after I had removed my breast. It isn’t easy at all. I have had so much pain. You don’t feel what sick people suffer from. You are selfish."
All the girls were surprised. They didn’t know that Shadia had breast cancer and removed her breast. All they knew was that she was sick. No one knew about the breast cancer, not even her teachers and close friends. Shadia couldn’t stop her tears so she left the class with her teacher.
All the girls were shocked. Those who were laughing and annoying didn’t know what to do. After a while, one of them stood up and said, “I am sorry. We apologize to you. We didn’t know it is so serious. It is the first time we have ever talked about breast cancer. Can you repeat the session from the beginning please?"
The health educator started the session over and all the girls participated. All of them wanted to try early detection on the model and on their selves. In addition, the health group in the school plans to host sessions for other classes that couldn’t come.
After we finished, we went to see Shadia and give her our support. We said, “Sweet Shadia, you are stronger than breast cancer. You overcame the disease. You are alive. Why didn’t you make this experience a message of yours in your life? You can make other girls aware of it. Don’t be ashamed. Women and girls will listen to our sessions but, after that, we aren’t sure. They may have forgotten what we said and not use it. But when they listen to you, they will never forget it because nobody can explain the pain except someone who had it and no one can feel what it means to be healthy except someone who has lost it. Shadia, be strong, optimistic, and try to forget the pain. I want to thank you so much for your courage and help.” Read more!
Sometimes in life we work hard, prepare for everything to have satisfying results, and expect everything to go perfectly because we tried to do our best. We are shocked when the opposite happens. Unfortunately, that is exactly what has happened with me. (Don’t worry it isn’t so bad.)
After the success we had in the first stage of our breast cancer awareness campaign sessions for women and the great participation by our target group, I expected girls in secondary schools to be interested and excited with our sessions, too. So what happened?
Actually, many of the girls in our target group are very good girls. They want to learn and improve themselves; however, some of them don’t respect anyone. Maybe they are teenagers and don’t think about this disease or feel sympathy for the patients who are suffering. Life for them is just fun, laughs, and good times with friends.
On October 15, we conducted an awareness session in Al-Salam Secondary School for Girls, one of the most famous secondary schools in Sana’a. We planned everything to make the session successful. When the health educator began her presentation some girls started laughing and making noise. The school’s manager stood up and told them to stop. They listened to her but after she left the classroom they started laughing and making noise again. This time they didn’t listen to anyone, not even their teachers. They told them, "If you don’t want to listen please go out and allow others to listen to the session.” Nothing worked. We were very angry and decided to leave. The teachers apologized and promised they would punish the students. Because of the students’ reaction, the health educator said, “How can we do sessions in other schools, Enas? That’s very embarrassing and unacceptable. It’s a waste of time.”
Throughout this sad conversation between the health educator and me, one girl named Shadia stood up and shouted at the other girls. “Please shut up! I had breast cancer two years ago. I had a mastectomy and my doctor told me, ‘If you had detected the disease earlier, you would not have needed to remove your breast. You know why I didn’t detect the disease early? Because I didn’t know that I had breast cancer. When I felt pain in my breast I was too shy to tell anyone, even my mother. Now I know about early detection and everything about breast cancer but after I had removed my breast. It isn’t easy at all. I have had so much pain. You don’t feel what sick people suffer from. You are selfish."
All the girls were surprised. They didn’t know that Shadia had breast cancer and removed her breast. All they knew was that she was sick. No one knew about the breast cancer, not even her teachers and close friends. Shadia couldn’t stop her tears so she left the class with her teacher.
All the girls were shocked. Those who were laughing and annoying didn’t know what to do. After a while, one of them stood up and said, “I am sorry. We apologize to you. We didn’t know it is so serious. It is the first time we have ever talked about breast cancer. Can you repeat the session from the beginning please?"
The health educator started the session over and all the girls participated. All of them wanted to try early detection on the model and on their selves. In addition, the health group in the school plans to host sessions for other classes that couldn’t come.
After we finished, we went to see Shadia and give her our support. We said, “Sweet Shadia, you are stronger than breast cancer. You overcame the disease. You are alive. Why didn’t you make this experience a message of yours in your life? You can make other girls aware of it. Don’t be ashamed. Women and girls will listen to our sessions but, after that, we aren’t sure. They may have forgotten what we said and not use it. But when they listen to you, they will never forget it because nobody can explain the pain except someone who had it and no one can feel what it means to be healthy except someone who has lost it. Shadia, be strong, optimistic, and try to forget the pain. I want to thank you so much for your courage and help.” Read more!
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Power of the Ribbon
By Dr. Samia Al-Amoudi, Associate Professor and Head of Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Alamoudi Scientific Chair for Breast Cancer at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
You cannot imagine how effective the pink ribbon can be as the beginning of a dialogue about breast cancer. On October 28th, we installed two large pink ribbons at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Hospital—one at the entrance of the building and one in the atrium. In addition, staff members wore pink ribbons to increase awareness about this devastating disease. The staff’s reaction was wonderful. Even the hospital security guards wore pink ribbons. And for our medical students, there was an educational program that included distributing educational books and brochures, plus a special edition of the school's newsletter, "Words to Inspire: Med School's Deeper Lessons."
The event, attended by Dr. Adnan Almazroa, KAU Vice President, and guests from Jagiellonian University, in Krakow, Poland, is part of KAU's plan to increase breast cancer awareness among health care providers, especially medical students. Since that day, many medical students have become excited about breast cancer and even offered to volunteer their time to increase awareness.
The newsletter features an article that captures my direct experience with breast cancer—as a woman and a doctor, and as someone who deeply loves her God and her country. Reflecting on my own diagnosis more than three years ago, I continue to share my story as a message of love I extend to every woman: Do not forget to make regular checks for possible tumors in your breasts. There are people who can help you win this fight—from your family to nurses and doctors.
Read more!
You cannot imagine how effective the pink ribbon can be as the beginning of a dialogue about breast cancer. On October 28th, we installed two large pink ribbons at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Hospital—one at the entrance of the building and one in the atrium. In addition, staff members wore pink ribbons to increase awareness about this devastating disease. The staff’s reaction was wonderful. Even the hospital security guards wore pink ribbons. And for our medical students, there was an educational program that included distributing educational books and brochures, plus a special edition of the school's newsletter, "Words to Inspire: Med School's Deeper Lessons."
The event, attended by Dr. Adnan Almazroa, KAU Vice President, and guests from Jagiellonian University, in Krakow, Poland, is part of KAU's plan to increase breast cancer awareness among health care providers, especially medical students. Since that day, many medical students have become excited about breast cancer and even offered to volunteer their time to increase awareness.
The newsletter features an article that captures my direct experience with breast cancer—as a woman and a doctor, and as someone who deeply loves her God and her country. Reflecting on my own diagnosis more than three years ago, I continue to share my story as a message of love I extend to every woman: Do not forget to make regular checks for possible tumors in your breasts. There are people who can help you win this fight—from your family to nurses and doctors.
Read more!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Pink Pyramids of Giza Send Global Message of Breast Cancer Awareness
"A dream has come true. Another triumph in the fight against breast cancer," said Mohamed Shaalan, Breast Cancer Foundation of Egypt, following the lighting of the pyramids in Giza, Egypt on October 24th.Read more!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Breast Cancer Awareness Event in Palestine Features Animated Film Fatenah
By Carol El-Jabari, U.S.-Middle East Partnership representative in the West Bank.
Patient’s Friends Society-Jerusalem and survivors from the Sunrise breast cancer support group held the first Palestinian Breast Cancer Awareness Event on Sunday, October 11th, at the Ramallah Cultural Palace. The goals were to raise awareness about the importance of early detection, celebrate life, and show how women are currently facing their diagnosis and treatment.
HE Majeda Al Masri, the Minister of Social Affairs, opened the day with an address on the importance of early detection. She then joined approximately 400 people in the March to Celebrate Life. Next, a lecture on early breast cancer detection was delivered by Dr. Sahar Araj Marzouka, an obstetrician/gynecologist. Several breast cancer survivors also shared their experiences with the audience.
Thanks to Dar Films and the World Health Organization they screened the film ‘Fatenah’ during the event. It’s the first Palestinian animated film and conveys the story of one young woman’s tragic breast cancer outcome. The film was well received and made quite an impact on the audience.
The day closed with classical music performances and a raffle.
The event participants came from all over the country--men, women, youth, and children. Thanks to the generosity of many supporters, many of the local businesses, but also TIPH (the temporary international presence in Hebron), the American Colony Hotel, and the Housing Bank ( Jordan), they were able to bus them to Ramallah—a first for many!
Sunrise ladies signing the ‘celebrate life’ poster at Ramallah Cultural Palace on 11 October 2009-Photo Carol Jabari
Read more!
Patient’s Friends Society-Jerusalem and survivors from the Sunrise breast cancer support group held the first Palestinian Breast Cancer Awareness Event on Sunday, October 11th, at the Ramallah Cultural Palace. The goals were to raise awareness about the importance of early detection, celebrate life, and show how women are currently facing their diagnosis and treatment.
HE Majeda Al Masri, the Minister of Social Affairs, opened the day with an address on the importance of early detection. She then joined approximately 400 people in the March to Celebrate Life. Next, a lecture on early breast cancer detection was delivered by Dr. Sahar Araj Marzouka, an obstetrician/gynecologist. Several breast cancer survivors also shared their experiences with the audience.
Thanks to Dar Films and the World Health Organization they screened the film ‘Fatenah’ during the event. It’s the first Palestinian animated film and conveys the story of one young woman’s tragic breast cancer outcome. The film was well received and made quite an impact on the audience.
The day closed with classical music performances and a raffle.
The event participants came from all over the country--men, women, youth, and children. Thanks to the generosity of many supporters, many of the local businesses, but also TIPH (the temporary international presence in Hebron), the American Colony Hotel, and the Housing Bank ( Jordan), they were able to bus them to Ramallah—a first for many!
Preparing for Patient Friends Society's 11 October 2009 event- Photo Carol Jabari
Sunrise ladies signing the ‘celebrate life’ poster at Ramallah Cultural Palace on 11 October 2009-Photo Carol Jabari
Read more!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Yemeni Women Embrace Breast Cancer Education Sessions
by Enas Abdo M. Mohsen, SOUL for the Development of Women and Children, Partnership Advocacy Grant Recipient
Before I started the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in Yemen, I thought women, girls, and all Yemeni society wouldn’t listen to my breast cancer awareness information. I thought they wouldn’t care and would be afraid to talk about this disease because they think if you have breast cancer or cancer in general, you will not be cured and die. Cancer is a sudden disease and there aren't enough early diagnoses of it. So I was thinking, “How can I convince Yemeni women that breast cancer isn't like what they have been thinking?”
Before I started the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in Yemen, I thought women, girls, and all Yemeni society wouldn’t listen to my breast cancer awareness information. I thought they wouldn’t care and would be afraid to talk about this disease because they think if you have breast cancer or cancer in general, you will not be cured and die. Cancer is a sudden disease and there aren't enough early diagnoses of it. So I was thinking, “How can I convince Yemeni women that breast cancer isn't like what they have been thinking?”
I was so afraid to start the session. “Nobody will come,” I said to my direct manager—but I didn't have a choice. I had to host the session.
At the first session, I looked at the whole health center and counted the number of ladies that arrived to listen. Over time the numbers of ladies increased. They didn't leave. They were listening attentively and asking very important questions. They wanted to have earlier clinical diagnoses for breast cancer by our health workers. Many of them told us they will host awareness sessions for their families, neighbors, and friends. I couldn't believe all of the interest in breast cancer. It was very exciting and amazing. "I must be dreaming," I said to myself. All of the women thanked us for the awareness sessions and asked, "Why didn't you come and host the sessions before?”
I learned many lessons from this campaign. I learned how I can be positive, strong, and do something good that will be a benefit to my society. No words can explain what I feel and how happy I am. I hope this small article will help. I would be grateful to receive your comments and share experiences with you. Thank you very much.
Read more!
Before I started the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in Yemen, I thought women, girls, and all Yemeni society wouldn’t listen to my breast cancer awareness information. I thought they wouldn’t care and would be afraid to talk about this disease because they think if you have breast cancer or cancer in general, you will not be cured and die. Cancer is a sudden disease and there aren't enough early diagnoses of it. So I was thinking, “How can I convince Yemeni women that breast cancer isn't like what they have been thinking?”
Before I started the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in Yemen, I thought women, girls, and all Yemeni society wouldn’t listen to my breast cancer awareness information. I thought they wouldn’t care and would be afraid to talk about this disease because they think if you have breast cancer or cancer in general, you will not be cured and die. Cancer is a sudden disease and there aren't enough early diagnoses of it. So I was thinking, “How can I convince Yemeni women that breast cancer isn't like what they have been thinking?”
I was so afraid to start the session. “Nobody will come,” I said to my direct manager—but I didn't have a choice. I had to host the session.
At the first session, I looked at the whole health center and counted the number of ladies that arrived to listen. Over time the numbers of ladies increased. They didn't leave. They were listening attentively and asking very important questions. They wanted to have earlier clinical diagnoses for breast cancer by our health workers. Many of them told us they will host awareness sessions for their families, neighbors, and friends. I couldn't believe all of the interest in breast cancer. It was very exciting and amazing. "I must be dreaming," I said to myself. All of the women thanked us for the awareness sessions and asked, "Why didn't you come and host the sessions before?”
I learned many lessons from this campaign. I learned how I can be positive, strong, and do something good that will be a benefit to my society. No words can explain what I feel and how happy I am. I hope this small article will help. I would be grateful to receive your comments and share experiences with you. Thank you very much.
Read more!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Pink for a Day: Free Mammograms Save Lives in Egypt
By Sean Lena
There are a number of obstacles to getting women to schedule annual screening mammograms. Dr. Hanan Gewefel, a radiologist and the Director of Breast Imaging at the Woman and Fetal Imaging Clinic (WAFI) in Cairo, says the primary obstacle is fear—of both the procedure and of possibly learning you may have cancer. The next obstacle is the stigma associated with a breast cancer diagnosis. And, the cost of a mammogram discourages many Egyptian women from getting screened more than once.
To address these obstacles, Dr. Gewefel founded Pink for a Day, a program that provides free mammograms once a week to disadvantaged women aged 40 and older. In addition, she makes these events more than just a medical appointment by offering “coffee mornings” to encourage groups of women to come together in support of one another.
During 2008, WAFI provided 839 free mammograms, with 33 women receiving a “suspicious” diagnosis, and 9 women diagnosed with cancer. By de-mystifying the screening process through weekly events and separate educational seminars, Dr. Gewefel hopes to increase the number of women who make mammograms a regular part of their health care.
Pink for a Day is funded by a number of local sponsors including health organizations, banks, pharmaceutical companies, and cosmetics companies. Dr. Gewefel promotes the program through advertisements in women’s magazines, but finds that word of mouth works best. To help ensure that women keep their appointments, she sends out appointment reminders via text messages and email.
Dr. Gewefel believes that free mammograms represent a first step towards a brighter future without breast cancer. Although sponsor support has recently decreased due to the worldwide economic situation, she hopes to continue serving these women for a long time to come.
For more information about the Pink for a Day program, visit the WAFI’s website (www.wafi-clinic.com) or contact Dr. Hanan Gewefel at drhanan@drhananclinic.com. Read more!
There are a number of obstacles to getting women to schedule annual screening mammograms. Dr. Hanan Gewefel, a radiologist and the Director of Breast Imaging at the Woman and Fetal Imaging Clinic (WAFI) in Cairo, says the primary obstacle is fear—of both the procedure and of possibly learning you may have cancer. The next obstacle is the stigma associated with a breast cancer diagnosis. And, the cost of a mammogram discourages many Egyptian women from getting screened more than once.
To address these obstacles, Dr. Gewefel founded Pink for a Day, a program that provides free mammograms once a week to disadvantaged women aged 40 and older. In addition, she makes these events more than just a medical appointment by offering “coffee mornings” to encourage groups of women to come together in support of one another.
During 2008, WAFI provided 839 free mammograms, with 33 women receiving a “suspicious” diagnosis, and 9 women diagnosed with cancer. By de-mystifying the screening process through weekly events and separate educational seminars, Dr. Gewefel hopes to increase the number of women who make mammograms a regular part of their health care.
Pink for a Day is funded by a number of local sponsors including health organizations, banks, pharmaceutical companies, and cosmetics companies. Dr. Gewefel promotes the program through advertisements in women’s magazines, but finds that word of mouth works best. To help ensure that women keep their appointments, she sends out appointment reminders via text messages and email.
Dr. Gewefel believes that free mammograms represent a first step towards a brighter future without breast cancer. Although sponsor support has recently decreased due to the worldwide economic situation, she hopes to continue serving these women for a long time to come.
For more information about the Pink for a Day program, visit the WAFI’s website (www.wafi-clinic.com) or contact Dr. Hanan Gewefel at drhanan@drhananclinic.com. Read more!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Breast Cancer Awareness Event in Alexandria Reaches Nearly 1,500 Women
By Hanaa Ismail
The following post was submitted by Hanaa Ismail, program coordinator at the Suzanne Mubarak Regional Center for Women’s Health and Development in Alexandria, Egypt.
To increase awareness about breast cancer and provide women with information about breast self-exams, we set up a stand at the Carrefour City Centre Shopping Mall in Alexandria, Egypt. For three days, from 10 a.m. to midnight, members of our team handed out brochures to women and, when the women asked, they were taught how to do a breast self examination.
Our stand was decorated with pink balloons and we gave out pink ribbons and pink sweets to women and their families. In addition, free mammograms were offered at our clinic. We had a large flow of requests for further consultations with physicians. Our team was pleased that we reached nearly 1,500 women through this event and we also received excellent media coverage from local news stations. Read more!
The following post was submitted by Hanaa Ismail, program coordinator at the Suzanne Mubarak Regional Center for Women’s Health and Development in Alexandria, Egypt.
To increase awareness about breast cancer and provide women with information about breast self-exams, we set up a stand at the Carrefour City Centre Shopping Mall in Alexandria, Egypt. For three days, from 10 a.m. to midnight, members of our team handed out brochures to women and, when the women asked, they were taught how to do a breast self examination.
Our stand was decorated with pink balloons and we gave out pink ribbons and pink sweets to women and their families. In addition, free mammograms were offered at our clinic. We had a large flow of requests for further consultations with physicians. Our team was pleased that we reached nearly 1,500 women through this event and we also received excellent media coverage from local news stations. Read more!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Partnership Expansion Activities in the West Bank and Gaza
By: Chris McKallagat, Country Lead, West Bank and Gaza
Chris McKallagat with Mariam Awad from Bethlehem University’s Faculty of Nursing and a member of the Partnership’s Advisory Planning Committee working to develop a breast cancer nursing training of trainers workshop in conjunction with the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS).
Recently, I traveled to the Palestinian territories to meet with key stakeholders, including the Palestinian Authority Ministry of Health (MOH), to initiate Partnership expansion activities. Recognizing the leading role of the MOH, the Partnership’s activities will strengthen and complement the Palestinian institutional response to breast cancer and help raise awareness among women and families. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the Palestinian territories and too many lives are lost unnecessarily. In fact, breast cancer kills more women in the Palestinian territories annually than the next three most frequently diagnosed cancers combined.
In response, the Partnership supports an approach to addressing breast cancer that works to improve institutional capacities, such as training for health care professionals and capacity-building of local organizations, while at the same time raising awareness at the community level through grassroots advocacy support and community mobilization and education.
American Near East Refugee Aid (ANERA), will spearhead an initial set of activities on behalf of the Partnership to strengthen the ability of Palestinian public and private institutions to work collaboratively in the areas of breast cancer prevention and management. In order to truly make an impact on breast cancer in the Palestinian territories, it is clear that greater coordination and collaboration among various stakeholders is needed. With leadership from the MOH and support from the Partnership, Palestinian women and families will be equipped with greater resources to fight breast cancer. The U.S. has gained amazing ground over the past 25 years in decreasing breast cancer mortality by increasing awareness and improving early detection and screening. The Partnership is pleased to actively support Palestinian women in their fight back against breast cancer.
Check out the Partnership’s Baseline Assessment of Breast Cancer Awareness and Care: West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem
Read more!
Chris McKallagat with Mariam Awad from Bethlehem University’s Faculty of Nursing and a member of the Partnership’s Advisory Planning Committee working to develop a breast cancer nursing training of trainers workshop in conjunction with the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS).Recently, I traveled to the Palestinian territories to meet with key stakeholders, including the Palestinian Authority Ministry of Health (MOH), to initiate Partnership expansion activities. Recognizing the leading role of the MOH, the Partnership’s activities will strengthen and complement the Palestinian institutional response to breast cancer and help raise awareness among women and families. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the Palestinian territories and too many lives are lost unnecessarily. In fact, breast cancer kills more women in the Palestinian territories annually than the next three most frequently diagnosed cancers combined.
In response, the Partnership supports an approach to addressing breast cancer that works to improve institutional capacities, such as training for health care professionals and capacity-building of local organizations, while at the same time raising awareness at the community level through grassroots advocacy support and community mobilization and education.
American Near East Refugee Aid (ANERA), will spearhead an initial set of activities on behalf of the Partnership to strengthen the ability of Palestinian public and private institutions to work collaboratively in the areas of breast cancer prevention and management. In order to truly make an impact on breast cancer in the Palestinian territories, it is clear that greater coordination and collaboration among various stakeholders is needed. With leadership from the MOH and support from the Partnership, Palestinian women and families will be equipped with greater resources to fight breast cancer. The U.S. has gained amazing ground over the past 25 years in decreasing breast cancer mortality by increasing awareness and improving early detection and screening. The Partnership is pleased to actively support Palestinian women in their fight back against breast cancer.
Check out the Partnership’s Baseline Assessment of Breast Cancer Awareness and Care: West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem
Read more!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Le Partenariat Indroduit un Programme Régional au Maroc lors d’une Table Ronde
Dans le cadre de l’extension de ses activités au Maroc, le Partenariat Etats-Unis – Moyen Orient pour la Sensibilisation et la Recherche sur le Cancer du Sein a tenu une table ronde Mardi le 23 Juin au Royal Mansour Le Meridien à Casablanca. Cette table ronde a été organisée en vue de lancer le Programme au Maroc et surtout d’établir le dialogue avec les professionnels du Cancer du sein et les associations actives dans le domaine. Ce fut la première fois au Maroc que les oncologues, les chercheurs, les psychiatres, les associations de lutte contre le cancer, les survivantes du cancer du sein se réunissent ensemble pour échanger sur une maladie qui concerne les femmes de toute classe et de tout niveau social.
La table ronde a été inaugurée par Rob Jackson, chargé d’affaires à l’Ambassade des Etats-Unis d’Amérique, qui a exprimé le soutien de l’Ambassade au Partenariat Etats-Unis – Moyen Orient pour la Sensibilisation et la Recherche sur le Cancer du Sein et son soutien personnel et celui de son épouse étant elle même une survivante du cancer du sein. Monsieur Jackson a félicité l’ensemble des associations et personnes qui oeuvrent pour la lutte contre le cancer du sein au Maroc et particulièrement l’association Lalla Salma pour ce qu’elle a accompli en si peu de temps.
Après des présentations sur l’état et l’analyse situationnelle du cancer du sein au Maroc, sur les objectifs Partenariat pour la Sensibilisation et la Recherche sur le Cancer du Sein au Maroc et une présentation Vital Voices (une ONG américaine en charge de la mise en œuvre d’une partie du programme relative au renforcement des capacités des ONGs au Maroc dans le domaine du cancer du sein), les participants se sont livrés à un débat front et fructueux sur les actions et activités à mener dans le moyen et court terme, à savoir :
1. Etablir un réseau réunissant des professionnels de la santé et associations actives dans la lutte contre le cancer du sein, qui pourrait être baptisé « Alliance Nationale du Cancer du Sein » ;
2. Etablir des groupes de travail par région ainsi que des groupes de soutien ;
3. Elaborer un flyer pour l’autopalpation ;
4. Etablir un guide des étapes à poursuivre en cas de cancer de sein depuis le dépistage;
5. Former des infirmières sur le cancer du sein et sur les soins palliatifs ;
6. Mettre en place une ligne téléphonique spéciale sur le cancer du sein « Hot line »
7. Mettre en place des unités mobiles de soins à domicile ;
8. Assurer des campagnes de sensibilisation et de dépistage dans des régions lointaines.
Les témoignages de plusieurs survivantes a éclairé davantage les participants ainsi que l’équipe du Partenariat sur la difficulté de certaines patientes des régions lointaines et défavorisées à détecter le cancer du sein à temps, de trouver des laboratoires spécialisés, de bénéficier des soins à domicile en plus du cout élevé des soins et l’absence du soutien psychologique et sociale.
Le Partenariat Etats-Unis – Moyen Orient pour la Sensibilisation et la Recherche sur le Cancer du Sein se félicite du lien étroit qu’elle a créée entre professionnels et activistes dans le domaine
du cancer du sein et a promis de mener des actions à grand impact dans la limite du temps et du budget alloué par MEPI.
Read more!
La table ronde a été inaugurée par Rob Jackson, chargé d’affaires à l’Ambassade des Etats-Unis d’Amérique, qui a exprimé le soutien de l’Ambassade au Partenariat Etats-Unis – Moyen Orient pour la Sensibilisation et la Recherche sur le Cancer du Sein et son soutien personnel et celui de son épouse étant elle même une survivante du cancer du sein. Monsieur Jackson a félicité l’ensemble des associations et personnes qui oeuvrent pour la lutte contre le cancer du sein au Maroc et particulièrement l’association Lalla Salma pour ce qu’elle a accompli en si peu de temps.
Après des présentations sur l’état et l’analyse situationnelle du cancer du sein au Maroc, sur les objectifs Partenariat pour la Sensibilisation et la Recherche sur le Cancer du Sein au Maroc et une présentation Vital Voices (une ONG américaine en charge de la mise en œuvre d’une partie du programme relative au renforcement des capacités des ONGs au Maroc dans le domaine du cancer du sein), les participants se sont livrés à un débat front et fructueux sur les actions et activités à mener dans le moyen et court terme, à savoir :
1. Etablir un réseau réunissant des professionnels de la santé et associations actives dans la lutte contre le cancer du sein, qui pourrait être baptisé « Alliance Nationale du Cancer du Sein » ;
2. Etablir des groupes de travail par région ainsi que des groupes de soutien ;
3. Elaborer un flyer pour l’autopalpation ;
4. Etablir un guide des étapes à poursuivre en cas de cancer de sein depuis le dépistage;
5. Former des infirmières sur le cancer du sein et sur les soins palliatifs ;
6. Mettre en place une ligne téléphonique spéciale sur le cancer du sein « Hot line »
7. Mettre en place des unités mobiles de soins à domicile ;
8. Assurer des campagnes de sensibilisation et de dépistage dans des régions lointaines.
Les témoignages de plusieurs survivantes a éclairé davantage les participants ainsi que l’équipe du Partenariat sur la difficulté de certaines patientes des régions lointaines et défavorisées à détecter le cancer du sein à temps, de trouver des laboratoires spécialisés, de bénéficier des soins à domicile en plus du cout élevé des soins et l’absence du soutien psychologique et sociale.
Le Partenariat Etats-Unis – Moyen Orient pour la Sensibilisation et la Recherche sur le Cancer du Sein se félicite du lien étroit qu’elle a créée entre professionnels et activistes dans le domaine
du cancer du sein et a promis de mener des actions à grand impact dans la limite du temps et du budget alloué par MEPI.
Read more!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
To Combat Breast Cancer, End the Stigma
The Partnership would like to share the following editorial, which ran in the July 14th issue of The National, an English newspaper launched by the Abu Dhabi Media Company.
‘Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” These are the words of Marie Curie, the Nobel-prize winning scientist who was the first to treat cancer with radiation. Her words are more relevant than ever today in the Emirates, where breast cancer has taken such a deadly toll on women, and the stigma attached to the disease continues to prevent women from getting diagnosed early enough to survive it. The mortality rate for women with breast cancer in the UAE is unacceptably high. As The National reports today, four out of five women diagnosed with breast cancer in Dubai have an advanced form of the disease by the time they finally seek treatment. And largely as a result of such late detection, 44 per cent of breast cancer cases are fatal...
For a country in which women have made remarkable strides in other facets of life, these are distressing statistics. Women make up over 60 per cent of students in state universities and consistently outperform their male peers in school. Female literacy in the Arab world is near 80 per cent; in the UAE it is 92 per cent. Women hold prominent positions in the Government and are also leading initiatives in the fields of arts, business and fashion. Why then has this society not realised its collective obligation to take the steps necessary to reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer?
The stigma associated with the cancer is doubly concerning considering that the UAE has some of the most state-of-the-art facilities to treat cancer. But despite the presence of world-class medical personnel and equipment, many women remain reluctant to have routine examinations and only do so when it is too late. Rashid Hospital in Dubai has even introduced two new methods of early detection that are found nowhere else in the Gulf. With all these options, there should be no reason for so many cases of breast cancer to be diagnosed at such a late and lethal stage. Yes, effective health care depends on individual responsibility. But women need to be better informed of what is at stake.
Over one million cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed this year worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation, and more than a third of women with breast cancer will eventually die from the disease. Even though medical breakthroughs may continue to decrease the number of deaths associated with the disease, early detection is still the single greatest factor in helping women beat the disease.
In these circumstances, a public dialogue about the importance of breast cancer screening is even more important than any set of technological advances. Dubai Hospital is to be commended for launching an awareness campaign that will generate a public conversation aimed at changing attitudes towards the detection and treatment of breast cancer. We have the material means; all we need is to change the way people think.
Now is the time we must understand this disease more and fear it less.
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090714/OPINION/707139910/1033
Read more!
‘Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” These are the words of Marie Curie, the Nobel-prize winning scientist who was the first to treat cancer with radiation. Her words are more relevant than ever today in the Emirates, where breast cancer has taken such a deadly toll on women, and the stigma attached to the disease continues to prevent women from getting diagnosed early enough to survive it. The mortality rate for women with breast cancer in the UAE is unacceptably high. As The National reports today, four out of five women diagnosed with breast cancer in Dubai have an advanced form of the disease by the time they finally seek treatment. And largely as a result of such late detection, 44 per cent of breast cancer cases are fatal...
For a country in which women have made remarkable strides in other facets of life, these are distressing statistics. Women make up over 60 per cent of students in state universities and consistently outperform their male peers in school. Female literacy in the Arab world is near 80 per cent; in the UAE it is 92 per cent. Women hold prominent positions in the Government and are also leading initiatives in the fields of arts, business and fashion. Why then has this society not realised its collective obligation to take the steps necessary to reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer?
The stigma associated with the cancer is doubly concerning considering that the UAE has some of the most state-of-the-art facilities to treat cancer. But despite the presence of world-class medical personnel and equipment, many women remain reluctant to have routine examinations and only do so when it is too late. Rashid Hospital in Dubai has even introduced two new methods of early detection that are found nowhere else in the Gulf. With all these options, there should be no reason for so many cases of breast cancer to be diagnosed at such a late and lethal stage. Yes, effective health care depends on individual responsibility. But women need to be better informed of what is at stake.
Over one million cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed this year worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation, and more than a third of women with breast cancer will eventually die from the disease. Even though medical breakthroughs may continue to decrease the number of deaths associated with the disease, early detection is still the single greatest factor in helping women beat the disease.
In these circumstances, a public dialogue about the importance of breast cancer screening is even more important than any set of technological advances. Dubai Hospital is to be commended for launching an awareness campaign that will generate a public conversation aimed at changing attitudes towards the detection and treatment of breast cancer. We have the material means; all we need is to change the way people think.
Now is the time we must understand this disease more and fear it less.
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090714/OPINION/707139910/1033
Read more!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Jordan Workshop on Starting a Support Group Energizes Local Advocates
By Susan Brown, Director, Health Education, Susan G. Komen for the Cure®
Susan and colleague, Sandy Finestone, conducted a workshop with members of the Jordan Breast Cancer Program in Amman, June 3-4, 2009. Together, they are developing a curriculum and materials for institution-based support groups.
Sandy Finestone and I spent two days with more than 20 women in Amman, Jordan. The topic of our workshop was “How to Start a Support Group,” but the information and passion shared by participants really extended beyond that topic. We watched women support each other—with a hug, a smile, a pat on the shoulder—when a group member was tearful as she recalled a friend who had lost her life to breast cancer and when another got a call on the second morning that her friend had died...
The women were there because they want to do something to help women in their communities who are diagnosed with breast cancer. No, they really want to do MORE, because they are already at work in their communities helping women with breast cancer.
We observed women think about new concepts, listen hard (as we did) to simultaneous translators to not miss anything that was said, work in groups, exchange ideas, and enthusiastically participate and compete in an ice breaker about old Arabic songs that caused a lot of laughter.
We saw that women who are involved with the breast cancer cause are more alike than not. Wherever they are, they are energetic, passionate, committed, creative, deliberate, and determined. We are eager to learn all of the great things they accomplish in the coming months and years. Read more!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Women are the World's Peacemakers
By Dr. Samia Al-AMoudi
I was proud to be part of the 21-member international delegation supporting the first Susan G. Komen Global Race for the Cure®. Our delegation included women from 18 countries--women from different cultures and races, and with different religious backgrounds. But we all spoke the same language when it came to fighting breast cancer. This was not a political or social fight, but a message of pure love for each other and for every other person on this planet...
We came to tell the whole world that breast cancer knows no boundaries and women's issues are the same everywhere. We might not have been able to prevent our own breast cancer diagnoses, but we are determined to do all that we can so that our daughters can live in a world free of breast cancer.
Dr. Jill Biden, a long-time advocate for breast health education and wife of U.S. Vice President Joseph Biden, said to the Race participants, “You are paving the way for a breast cancer-free world through your efforts."
For the Race, Komen Founder Ambassador Nancy Brinker brought together women from across the globe to write a new page in a new era of peace to make breast cancer history. This is the way I felt as a Saudi woman, and as a breast cancer survivor attending the Global Race. I am a happy that the U.S.-Middle East Partnership for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research is helping to bring us together. I wanted to share my feelings with women of all nations.
Dr. Samia Al-Amoudi isAssociate Professor and Consultant Obstetrician Gynecologist
Head of Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi scientific chair for breast cancer
King Abdul-Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Read more!
I was proud to be part of the 21-member international delegation supporting the first Susan G. Komen Global Race for the Cure®. Our delegation included women from 18 countries--women from different cultures and races, and with different religious backgrounds. But we all spoke the same language when it came to fighting breast cancer. This was not a political or social fight, but a message of pure love for each other and for every other person on this planet...
We came to tell the whole world that breast cancer knows no boundaries and women's issues are the same everywhere. We might not have been able to prevent our own breast cancer diagnoses, but we are determined to do all that we can so that our daughters can live in a world free of breast cancer.
Dr. Jill Biden, a long-time advocate for breast health education and wife of U.S. Vice President Joseph Biden, said to the Race participants, “You are paving the way for a breast cancer-free world through your efforts."
For the Race, Komen Founder Ambassador Nancy Brinker brought together women from across the globe to write a new page in a new era of peace to make breast cancer history. This is the way I felt as a Saudi woman, and as a breast cancer survivor attending the Global Race. I am a happy that the U.S.-Middle East Partnership for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research is helping to bring us together. I wanted to share my feelings with women of all nations.
Dr. Samia Al-Amoudi isAssociate Professor and Consultant Obstetrician Gynecologist
Head of Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi scientific chair for breast cancer
King Abdul-Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Friday, May 15, 2009
Daughters’ Marriage Prospects Top Concern for Woman with Cancer
By Hana Abu Shareb
As a nurse, Hana Abu Shareb, Health authority Abu Dhabi has worked with many people with cancer for the past eight years. She shared with the Partnership how one patient’s reaction to a breast cancer diagnosis has really stayed with her.
“I worked with a 45-year-old woman who was shocked to receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Her shock quickly changed to concern for her daughters who she felt would lose many marriage opportunities based on her diagnosis. While this is not unusual in our culture—not just for breast cancer but for any life-threatening disease--I was still surprised to hear her voice this as her primary concern.
Women, especially mothers, regularly put their needs behind the needs of their families. But, because this woman shared her concerns with me I am prepared to discuss this with other women and better guide them in the next steps for referral and treatment. I do not know how things ended up with this courageous woman because she returned to her homeland. However, her impact on me continues to benefit others who receive the same diagnosis.” Read more!
As a nurse, Hana Abu Shareb, Health authority Abu Dhabi has worked with many people with cancer for the past eight years. She shared with the Partnership how one patient’s reaction to a breast cancer diagnosis has really stayed with her.
“I worked with a 45-year-old woman who was shocked to receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Her shock quickly changed to concern for her daughters who she felt would lose many marriage opportunities based on her diagnosis. While this is not unusual in our culture—not just for breast cancer but for any life-threatening disease--I was still surprised to hear her voice this as her primary concern.
Women, especially mothers, regularly put their needs behind the needs of their families. But, because this woman shared her concerns with me I am prepared to discuss this with other women and better guide them in the next steps for referral and treatment. I do not know how things ended up with this courageous woman because she returned to her homeland. However, her impact on me continues to benefit others who receive the same diagnosis.” Read more!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Stories from the Field
Alice Rezien, of the Suzanne Mubarak Regional Center for Women’s Health and Development, in Alexandria, Egypt, submitted the following post.
In conjunction with International Women's Day (February 10-12, 2009), the Suzanne Mubarak Center organized and conducted a three-day training program for 30 nurses working in outpatient clinics and family health care centers in different sectors of Alexandria. The training, titled Breast Cancer: Awareness, Early Detection, Breast Self Examination, Treatment Modalities, Peri operative Care and Quality of Life, focused on the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to enhance awareness about breast cancer in nurses, and women, in general. Presenters also strove to motivate participants to practice breast self examination. Further, the Center promotes quality care for women with breast cancer throughout the stages of treatment and rehabilitation, with the ultimate goal of ensuring an acceptable quality of life.
In conjunction with International Women's Day (February 10-12, 2009), the Suzanne Mubarak Center organized and conducted a three-day training program for 30 nurses working in outpatient clinics and family health care centers in different sectors of Alexandria. The training, titled Breast Cancer: Awareness, Early Detection, Breast Self Examination, Treatment Modalities, Peri operative Care and Quality of Life, focused on the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to enhance awareness about breast cancer in nurses, and women, in general. Presenters also strove to motivate participants to practice breast self examination. Further, the Center promotes quality care for women with breast cancer throughout the stages of treatment and rehabilitation, with the ultimate goal of ensuring an acceptable quality of life.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
أسبوع الشراكة للعمل الأجتماعي
لتظهر مساندتك لنشر الوعي والتأييد لمكافحة سرطان الثدي: قم بتنظيم فعالية خلال انعقاد أسبوع الشراكة للعمل الأجتماعي الأول للفترة من 24- 30 آيار، 2009
تتشرف شراكة الولايات المتحدة الأميركية والشرق الأوسط لمكافحة سرطان الثدي ونشر الوعي والبحوث أن تعلن عن أنعقاد أسبوع الشراكة للعمل الأجتماعي الأول. حيث سيجتمع في شهر آيار الحالي نساء ورجال مهتمين بموضوع سرطان الثدي قدِموا من الشرق الأوسط وشمال أفريقيا ليعبروا عن آرائهم بصوت مسموع. إذ يمكن لفئة قليلة أن تؤثر تأثيراً فعالاً. ويمكن ان نظهر مدى عزمنا وقوتنا جماعياً لدى قيامنا بتنظيم سلسلة من الفعاليات المحلية حول أهمية نشر الوعي لمكافحة سرطان الثدي والقيام بالكشف والفحص المبكرين عنه. وأليك بعض الأفكار عن كيفية مشاركتك معنا
أعمل على تنظيم أو الأشتراك بفعالية في منطقتك: يمكن أن تشمل هذه الفعالية أي شئ ---- كالقيام بجمع مجموعة من الأصدقاء في بيتك، مكان عملك، أو في أي مكان عام. وكلما كان عدد الأشخاص المجتمعين أكبر كان هذا أفضل.
قم بتشجيع الحضور لهذه المناسبة: يمكنك أن تعلن عن هذه المناسبة في الموقع الألكتروني الخاص بالمنظمة، على صفحتك الشخصية للفيسبوك، لوحة أعلانات المنطقة- وفي اي مكان يمكن أن يشاهده الناس. الرجاء إرفاق الموقع الألكتروني للشراكة (www.bcpartnership.org) وشريط وردي اللون للدلالة على سرطان الثدي.
أعمل على القيام بواجب الضيافة لهذه المناسبة والتقاط بعض الصور: إذ يمكننا حينها أن نتقاسم ما تحصل عليه من نتائج مع شبكة الشراكة كلها (bcpartnership.ning.com).
قم بالتعريف عن نفسك: سنقوم بإدراج الفعاليات الأكثر إبداعاً من التي تصل لآسماعنا على موقعنا الآلكتروني (كما يساعد التقاط الصور وتصوير افلام الفديو على أبراز القصة بشكل أوضح). كما نعمل على أيجاد طرق أخرى تساعد في التعريف بجهودك، لذا إبق مصغياً لنا!
للمزيد من المعلومات، الرجاء زيارة الموقع الخاص بأسبوع الشراكة للعمل الأجتماعي أو أرسال إيميل على العنوان الألكتروني التالي partnership@bcpartnership.org.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Partnership Community Action Week
Show your support for breast cancer awareness and advocacy: organize an activity during our first Partnership Community Action Week, May 24-30, 2009
The U.S.-Middle East Partnership for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research is proud to announce the first Partnership Community Action Week. This May, women and men from across the Middle East and North Africa who care about breast cancer will come together to make their voices heard. A few people can make a major impact. By holding a series of local activities on the importance of breast cancer awareness, early detection, and screening, we can collectively show our strength. Here’s how you can get involved:
1.) Organize or join an activity in your community: Your action can be anything-- gather a group of your friends together at your home, office, or in a public place. The more people that get involved the better!
2.) Promote your event: You can post your event announcement on the Partnership network, on your organization’s website, your personal Facebook page, on community bulletin boards—anywhere people will see it.
3.) Host your activity and take photos: We can then share your results with the entire Partnership Network (bcpartnership.ning.com).
4.) Be recognized: The most creative actions we hear about (photos and video really help tell your story) will be featured on our website. We also are exploring other ways to recognize your efforts, so stay tuned!
For more information see our Partnership Community Action Week pager
http://tinyurl.com/communityactionweek
Questions? Email us: partnership@bcpartnership.org.
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