POWER OF PINK showcases powerful performances
HOPE RIVER turned pink as it flowed through Half-Way Tree, St Andrew, on Friday night when Agent Sasco delivered the final performance to top off a powerful evening of testimonies by women and music by men in support of the fight against breast cancer.
The stage was set by JN Bank as it hosted its Solidarity Day Candle Lighting Ceremony and Concert to cap its month-long
Power of Pink campaign targeted at raising awareness of the impact of breast cancer, especially on women, and underscoring the importance of early detection and support, as well as to raise funds for treatment.
Touched by the disease himself after his mother died from breast cancer in 2005, the popular DJ performed songs from his recent album and took fans down memory lane with a mix of his hit singles dating back to his debut on the dancehall scene in 2001 as he paid homage to survivors and those killed by the disease.
His performance was preceded by an equally energetic Wayne Marshall, who closed his act with a rendition of his current hit, Glory to God, after delivering a medley of his former dancehall hits, including collaborations with Vybz Kartel and top tracks from artistes such as Beres Hammond, Sanchez and Tony Rebel. JahDore also gave a surprise performance, delivering his hit song, Fake People, before treating the audience to his skills on the saxophone. However, the celebration of warriors and survivors would not have been complete without praise to God, which was led by gospel artistes Jermaine Edwards and Kevin Downswell, who entertained patrons with a spiritual experience filled with gratitude and exaltation.
Passers-by slowed to participate in the ceremony, which started at the front of the landmark JN Bank chief office on Constant Spring Road, before moving to the bank’s upper car park on Suthemere Road.
JN Bank’s deputy managing director, Leesa Kow, who has lost close friends to the disease, encouraged women to take greater care to examine themselves regularly even if they have no family history of the disease or don’t meet the typical age for diagnosis.
“We encourage everyone here this evening to get more involved. Volunteer your services to the Jamaica Cancer Society. Help them to spread the word about early detection. And, most importantly, donate to the cause to fight breast cancer and in honour of those we have lost,” she added.
She continued, “The Power of Pink is about these simple actions, which, if we take more seriously, can save the lives of more Jamaican women,” she urged, noting that as many 300 women die from breast cancer in Jamaica each year.
The event moved some persons to relate their experiences and to call for others to join the fight against breast cancer by supporting victims and their loved ones.