ALBERTON – October month is all about pink. The CANSA association is the soul together with Reach for Recovery assuring a place for women who have been diagnosed with, or recovered, from breast cancer and are able to share their concern and stories.
Although the meeting held on October 1 had proven to be awareness across the border, Jocelyn Moodley, a survivor of a very rare type of cancer, shared her story. Her rare condition usually effects middle-aged woman. Surprisingly, she had been diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma which affected the palate of her mouth.
The treatment of this type of cancer is extremely aggressive including surgery and radiation therapy which you can imagine to be a life changing event for anyone.
Jocelyn has been part of the CANSA association for six years now and is cancer free for seven. “Young people usually don’t survive this,” said Jocelyn. She is blessed to be here today.
She supports causes such as the Shavathon in Alberton, Child Hood cancer fund which is also in Alberton: Alberton City Mall. She shares her interest by being part of the ‘’look good, feel better’’ programme which deals with cancer patients/survivors addressing the appearance related side effects of cancer in private and public hospitals.
The products are sponsored by various industries. It motivates the individual. Find more info: lookgoodfeelbetter.org andwww.lgfb.co.za
This year Jocelyn will be heading to Europe where she will be discussing her stories and sharing additional information on the topic of cancer to specific representatives. Hopefully, next year we will be able to attend this event with her to get an insight into what it is all about.
Sister Josey Nonkonyana also spoke out and is a survivor for 23 years. She also has survived breast cancer three times. “We give patients practical and emotional support,” said Mrs Nonkonyana, happily expressing her story.
The project sparked when a teenage girl of sixteen had been diagnosed with breast cancer and died. It encouraged Mrs Nonkonyana to launch offices here in Alberton. They will be reaching out further to the community and teach woman how to do their monthly self-examination which helps with early detection and prevention.
Marina and Krystle from Breast Assured also showed their support. Marina has 16 years of experience in the medical industry. Their supporting efforts will help in donating pillows to under privileged patients undergoing surgical procedures on behalf of Reach for Recovery according to their statement.
Sylvia MM Craucamp is the community mobiliser for CANSA and has survived the harsh effects of cancer.
Reach for Recovery is proud to launch its offices at CANSA Alberton. Members who would like to participate should be Breast Cancer patients or survivors. In support, one could purchase a teddy for R50 to support the Awareness and help change lives.
Events to look out for: Walkathon, October 27 at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital to help raise funds.
