To honor the fighters and those who have lost their battle against cancer, a group of San Pedranos gathered at Central Park on Tuesday, November 12th, for an awareness walk focused on breast cancer. The event included members of the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), the San Pedro Lions Club, the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, athletes, and other residents of the island.
The solidarity walk began shortly after 5PM, starting from Central Park and heading north on Barrier Reef Drive before turning onto Pescador Drive. Led by the San Pedro Traffic Department, the participants circled the San Juan roundabout and then marched back along Pescador Drive to Central Park, where it concluded. Many participants wore t-shirts and banners highlighting the seriousness of the disease that affects many Belizeans and individuals worldwide.
A moment of silence was observed in memory of those who had lost their battle with cancer. Marina Kay from SPTC expressed gratitude to everyone for their support and participation in the awareness walk. She emphasized that the community is available to assist residents in any way possible. The event also provided information on how to conduct self-examinations for any signs of breast cancer. According to the information shared, the best time to perform breast self-examination is a few days after the menstrual cycle ends, specifically around days seven to ten of the cycle.
While cancer is often viewed as a deadly disease, attendees emphasized that the most effective way to combat it is through early detection and appropriate treatment. The island community was encouraged to stay positive, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and seek medical checkups if they noticed anything unusual in their bodies.
On Tuesday, November 12th, Valerie Woods, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, announced her recent diagnosis of breast cancer. During the closing remarks of the House session, she mentioned that she may need to be absent from upcoming meetings as she undergoes treatment. Woods, who was recently elected as the Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Small Branch Network, has commented that she will remain focused amid her cancer diagnosis.
For additional information about the disease and assistance options, contact the San Pedro Lions through their Facebook page at https://shorturl.at/9XxtP. You can also reach out to Dr. Otto Rodriguez, San Pedro Polyclinic II, by calling 226-2536 for recommendations.
