Hand in Hand in Solidarity: Government Focuses on Prevention and Early Detection of Breast Cancer
ORANJESTAD – The Ministry of Health, Social Affairs, Senior Care, and Addiction Management organized a solidarity gathering at the Government Administration Building in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
As part of the event, the Government Administration Building was illuminated in pink as a visible sign of solidarity with all individuals and families affected by breast cancer. The initiative focused on prevention, early detection, equitable access to health information, and the vital role of support systems during a cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Minister Wyatt-Ras: "The light reflects our commitment to our people"
During her address, Minister Melvin Wyatt-Ras focused on strength, resilience, and community support. When an individual faces cancer, support from family, the community, healthcare professionals, and government agencies is essential to improving well-being and quality of life.
Minister Wyatt-Ras emphasized that illuminating the Government building carries a message far deeper than the color pink itself:
"The pink light illuminating our Government building is not just a bright light; it reflects our care and attention for every person affected by cancer: those facing a diagnosis, those currently fighting, those who have overcome, those in recovery, and the loved ones who support them throughout the journey."
The Minister linked this initiative to the Ministry's broader mission to serve citizens at every stage of life, fostering physical, mental, emotional, and social health. She stressed that prevention, public education, and early detection remain top public health priorities, with a focus on building a more accessible care system.
Acknowledging key community partners, Minister Wyatt-Ras commended the Mary Joan Foundation (ABO Foundation) for its work with the national breast cancer screening program (BOB). She expressed full support for the "Make Aruba Pink" campaign, which inspires the community to turn awareness into concrete action:
"Let the light also illuminate our knowledge."
Dr. Vanessa Williams: "Screening Saves Lives"
Dr. Vanessa Williams, radiologist and co-founder of the BOB Foundation (now integrated under the ABO Foundation), spoke on the importance of moving from awareness to direct action.
Reflecting on the 10-year history of the BOB breast cancer screening program, Dr. Williams explained that this year’s "Make Aruba Pink" campaign uses pink as an active call to action:
"Early detection can save your life."
Dr. Williams highlighted that breast health awareness should begin long before reaching screening age. Starting in their teenage years, young women are encouraged to perform monthly self-examinations to become familiar with their bodies and recognize what is normal for them. This practice allows women to notice changes early and seek medical care promptly.
For women aged 45 and older, Dr. Williams emphasized getting a screening mammogram every two years. Her message to eligible women was simple and direct: "Don't wait—get informed, make your appointment, because screening saves lives."
Prime Minister Mike Eman Shares Personal Experience
Prime Minister Mike Eman shared a personal family reflection, speaking candidly about the time his wife, Mrs. Doina Eman, faced a cancer diagnosis and underwent treatment.
He highlighted the profound emotional impact a diagnosis has not only on the patient, but on the entire family and support circle. Reflecting on the care and support his family received during that difficult period, Prime Minister Eman expressed deep gratitude to the healthcare professionals who treated his wife.
His story reinforced a central message of the gathering: alongside medical treatment, every individual facing cancer needs empathy, presence, and unwavering support from their community.