Tawau needs mammogram machine urgently – TKPR
TAWAU: Tawau Kinabalu Pink Ribbon (TKPR) has repeated its call for a mammogram machine to be made available here.
“I have always encouraged women to get their breast screening done in a timely manner, but again, despite crying for a mammogram machine for Tawau, we do not get any good news.
“I want our voices to be heard by the relevant authorities that Tawau needs a mammogram machine badly and urgently,” said TKPR chairperson Christy Fe Salazar.
“I can see the gratitude of women when detecting their breast cancer early with selfexamination and mammogram,” she said.
Christy said that since July this year, the breast cancer awareness campaign roadshow, a collaboration between TKPR and Tawau Hospital surgical department has made a significant impact on the local community.
The awareness campaign kicked off from Kalabakan, Merotai, Chinese Buddhist Lodge, Tawau Hospice, Balung, Semporna and finally in Lahad Datu on October 6.
Christy, a breast cancer survivor of 10 and a half years, shared her experience during the campaign.
She said October is the annual International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Tawau Kinabalu Pink Ribbon is deeply committed to carry out breast cancer awareness program and to continuously support and advance the fight for its cure.
This yearly campaign aims to educate people on the importance of early and regular screening, tests and more, she said, adding that it also offers information and support to those affected by breast cancer.
Despite her own medical impediments, Christy continues to be a strong advocate in the battle against breast cancer and works very closely with other medical authorities.
The community activist has taken it upon herself to be an influence to women in Sabah, Tawau, in particular, especially on breast cancer support.
Christy pointed out that early detection is vital and is the key component to overcoming the battle.
But then again, there is no point in early detection if you do not seek the right medical attention, she said.
“I am blessed that you people have provided me with this wonderful platform and I am obliged to carry on the work,” she said.
“With the awareness campaign and information available, no women should be in the dark about breast cancer these days.
“Men can also be affected by breast cancer, though rare and generally overlooked, she said.
“While I truly believe that it is very personal how newly diagnosed survivors and warriors feel about breast cancer, we need each other’s strong support.
“These days, breast cancer is getting a lot of attention which is a lot better than in the past.
A variety of programs and events are being organized, including ‘The Pinktober Run’ which is expected to be participated by 2,500 people on October 28.
The TKPR signature and yearly event is created as a collaborative effort between TKPR and the Rotary Club of Tawau.
“Our slogan for this year is ‘Hope’. T-shirts and other pink merchandised items are being widely sold since July this year,” she said.
For more information or registration, call or WhatsApp 019-8832004.