The Crescent at Camana Bay was aglow in lavender Sunday, to mark World Cancer Day, a global initiative held annually on 4 Feb., to raise awareness of cancer and to promote prevention, detection and treatment.
The Cayman Islands Cancer Society hosted its first annual candlelight vigil, which saw close to 60 people in attendance, including cancer survivors and those currently battling the disease. Lavender is the awareness colour of all cancers.
“Cancer doesn’t discriminate. It affects individuals, families, and communities around the globe,” said Rebekah Anne Brooks, chair of the Cayman Islands Cancer Society board, during her remarks.
“Let us honour those we’ve lost, celebrate the survivors amongst us, and extend our collective compassion for those still fighting,” she said. “Together we can amplify our voices, advocate for research, and foster a world where the word ‘cancer’ doesn’t evoke fear.”
Brooks added, “May this vigil serve as a reminder that our solidarity is the powerful voice, capable of bringing positive change. As we stand together, we declare our commitment to a future where cancer is no longer a threat.”
Governor Jane Owen, who attended the event, told those gathered she had a mammogram about 10 days ago. “I hadn’t had one for like 20 years or something… ridiculous, so I do think it continues to be really important to raise awareness and get people thinking about what they can do to keep the scourge of cancer away.”
Owen acknowledged that those coming together to light a candle are doing so for “lots of different reasons”, whether in support of the many efforts on island, the resources available, or for families, friends, and loved ones “who we have lost to cancer, over the weeks, months, years”.
She added, “We come together to cherish the memories we have with those loved ones, but also to commit together again, that we are going to continue with the fight, remembering what World Cancer Day is about… it’s about creating a world without cancer. Sometimes it seems quite a long way off, but we are making step-by-step progress and I do believe that one day, together, we will get there.”
Guest speaker Pastor Reinaldo Dracket, former president of the Cayman Islands Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, shared words of encouragement to those touched by the disease.
“In the face of adversity, we have demonstrated courage, determination and a strong will to overcome,” he said. “Your triumphs over trials are not merely personal victories, but serves as a beacons of hope for so many others who are going through this ordeal, as well as others who will walk where we have walked.”
Dracket, who is also a cancer survivor, said those who have beaten the disease carry a unique story, “one of triumph over tribulation, of resilience in the face of the unknown. Each one of us is a testament of the power of perseverance, and our stories serve as a source of inspiration for those who continue to fight this dreaded disease.”
He added, “As the chapters in our lives unfold, may we experience joy, healing and fulfilment. Remember you are not alone in this journey. As a community, let us stand united supporting one another with empathy and understanding. Let the friendships created through shared experiences be a source of comfort and strength to all of us.”
Many who gathered then bowed their heads in prayer and, in solidarity, observed two minutes of silence.
The event also included performances by violinist Kate Knox and singer Gwen Stabler.
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