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June 2021 
National Cancer Survivors' Day
On June 6, 2021, we celebrated National Cancer Survivors’ Day along with millions of people around the world. It was a day on which we came together to recognize cancer survivors, celebrate life and raise awareness of the challenges of cancer survivorship.
According to the National Cancer Institute, it is estimated that there are over 16.9 million cancer survivors in the United States, representing approximately 5% of the population. Among today's survivors, the most common cancer sites represented include female breast (23%, 3.9 million), prostate (22%, 3.7 million) and colorectal (9%, 1.5 million).
Great progress in cancer survivorship has been seen over the last few decades, and we should celebrate this milestone. However, life after cancer is not just about survival. Many survivors will tell you that the effects of cancer do not end when treatment does. They face ongoing hardships because of their disease. Each cancer experience is unique therefore survivorship is different for each person. One survivor told me that emotional support is very important. While monetary contributions are appreciated, they also need companionship, someone to talk to and to be included in activities. They do not want to be pitied but want to live and enjoy life.
While this month is about celebrating life, it is also important to have a call to action for further research, more resources, and increased public awareness to improve the lives of cancer survivors.
BACA will continue to support and encourage cancer survivors and to raise cancer awareness in our community because early detection saves lives. We invite you to join us in this work by becoming a member of the organization. For more information about BACA, please visit our website at www.barbadoscancerusa.org or call us at 866-729-1011.
Heather Marsh
President
Cancer Survivor's Story
My name is Betty Forde-Bovell and I am a Cancer Survivor.
My journey with breast cancer expands from 2016 to present. As one of the many survivors, we stand together triumphant, walking in the knowledge that endurance comes through faith, determination and the will of God.
In 2016 I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma and, through genetic testing, I was found to be a BRCA2 positive mutation carrier.
Cancer is not an individual illness, it touches the psyche of every family member. I had first-hand experience as I watched the devastation as cancer ravaged my love ones. The dynamics of my family history is significant to mention; cancer has plagued many of them, starting with my dad who succumbed to breast cancer, which many people still believe is a myth. I have already lost two of my sisters to breast and ovarian cancer. Other siblings are battling with colon and prostate cancer, and one niece, who had to undergo a double mastectomy at a very young age, is now also a survivor.
As part of my treatment, I had four surgeries, four months of chemo and radiation therapy, which as a result, I am now experiencing chronic side effects, such as decrement in the white blood cells, neuropathy of the hands and feet, lymphedema (protein fluid) in the breast and some psychological setbacks attributed to this disease. Cancer treatment is an ongoing process and I have to follow up with MRIs’, mammograms, breast bilateral with contrast, lab work, physiotherapy, and a plethora of medications.
Cancer takes total priority of one’s life, but with the help of thoughtful, kindhearted family members and friends giving encouragement, uplifting and embracing me through my moment of pain, hurt and sadness, I can now say that I am a Survivor under God’s watchful eyes and grace.
Breast cancer is not a death sentence! Early detection and modern medication play a pivotal role in the treatment of cancer. There is hope! I have learnt to navigate, cope and accept this is the new me; the will to live takes determination, strength and faith that only God can give. In this walk called life, we will always have tribulations, each one of us has our own cross to carry; but it is how we carry that cross. “Through all the storms of life, just know you have a comforter; Jesus.” I awake each morning with a prayer, looking forward for my tomorrows. Never give up or give in, hold on to God’s unchanging hands.
I extend greatest appreciation to BACA for allowing me the opportunity to share my story and in so doing I hope it will give encouragement to those who have been diagnosed. I acknowledge my family and friends, too numerous to mention, my husband and sons for all their continuous love and moral support. I love you all.
Upcoming Events
Saturday, July 17, 2021: Bingo Night
Saturday, September 18, 2021: Dr. Deborah Brathwaite Annual Cancer Symposium
Saturday, October 9, 2021: World Hospice & Palliative Care Day
Saturday, December 4, 2021: Choose Hope
Please donate to:
Barbados Cancer Association USA (BACA), Inc.
P.O. Box 3094, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163-3094
Tel: 866-729-1011
http://barbadoscancerusa.org
Via Zelle at [email protected]
Editor
Diana Cadogan, Public Relation Officer
347 351-0233 | [email protected]
Public Relations Committee
Margaret A. Deane | Inell Jemmott | Janelle Taylor | Dr. Edward Alleyne | Dr. O’Neall Parris
Barbados Cancer Association USA (BACA), Inc. is a 501 (C) 3 not for profit organization whose focus is cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and after care in the local immigrant community and Barbados.
