The Breast Cancer Foundation has confirmed its ongoing support for the Cayman Islands Cancer Society with a donation of $100,000 for 2025.
The significant contribution and continued collaboration between the two leading cancer charities “ensures a seamless network of care, education, and support for individuals and families impacted by all forms of cancer. The donation will help fund essential services, including financial aid for treatment,” according to a BCF press release.
Beverly Edgington, chief administrator at the BCF, told the Cayman Compass, “We have donated $70,000 every year since our inception. However, with the number of cases increasing and the need for financial aid becoming more pressing, we both realised how important it was to not only continue with our support but [to] increase it.”
Edgington added, the synergy between BCF and CICS “amplifies the impact of every initiative. By working closely together, we maximise our efforts to reduce the burden of breast cancer in our community.”
She explained that joint awareness campaigns help improve access to screenings and treatment. BCF provides mammogram and ultrasound vouchers while CICS provides Pap smear and PSA vouchers.
“The BCF refers all breast cancer patients who require financial aid to CICS, and we operate our world class wellness programme. We do joint educational workshops for both the medical professionals and also in the corporate environment,” she said.
“The BCF will be walking in the CICS stride on 26 Jan. and their team will join us at [Light Up the Night] event on 1 March. Finally, for the last two years, we have been happy to join and support CICS in the Brac for their annual health fair.”
Rebekah Brooks, chairman of the CICS board, told the Compass they’re thankful to the BCF for their generous donation.
“CICS is committed to providing financial aid for all types of cancer, including breast cancer. This support is essential in helping patients navigate the financial challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis,” Brooks said.
“Their support allows us to extend our reach and provide critical resources to those in need. Teamwork between our organisations is vital to tackling cancer in all its forms.”
With breast cancer making up nearly 60% of all cancer diagnosis in the Cayman Islands, Edgington said, “It is important that BCF and CICS work closely and collaboratively to provide the support that anyone diagnosed, together with their family and friends, needs”.
While both charities do their own events to raise funds and awareness, Edgington noted, “This partnership, which started at the start of the foundation, means that the Cancer Society is able to fully support all ladies – and gentlemen – who approach them for financial assistance having received a breast cancer diagnosis.”
Light Up the Night
Saturday, 1 March | Public Beach on West Bay Road | 6:30-7:30pm
Light up Seven Mile from Public Beach to The Ritz-Carlton with a pink glow as the sun sets. With nearly 500 people registered in their wellness programme so far, funds raised at this, and all events, go to support the foundation. To sign up, visit www.breastcancerfoundation.ky.
Stride Against Cancer
Sunday, 26 Jan. | Public Beach on West Bay Road | 6am-9pm
The CICS will be celebrating 30 years in the Cayman Islands. Online registration is now open. The family-friendly event features a half marathon at 5:30am and a 10K run or walk to the Wharf and back, starting at 6am. Commemorative T-shirts are provided for the first 1,500 registrants. Music and prizes will be offered at the finish line. For more information, call 949-7618 or email [email protected].
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The amount of support for cancer in Cayman is amazing. However I understand that prostate cancer in the U.K. is now more common than breast cancer. I just wonder what the situation is here and how spending on the two cancers compares. I write as a prostate cancer survivor (so far).