The Naomi Mikafui Breast Cancer Foundation, in partnership with the African University College of Communications (AUCC) Student Representative Council (SRC), hosted the inaugural Mikafui PINK Conference and Health Fair on Saturday, October 26, 2024. Held at the AUCC campus in Adabraka, the event brought together health professionals, cancer survivors, advocates, and community members to discuss vital themes surrounding breast cancer care, under the powerful theme “Closing the Care Gap: Encourage to Cope and Survive Breast Cancer.”
The SRC President of AUCC opened the event with a welcome address, acknowledging the critical need for breast cancer awareness and early detection across Ghana and beyond. The conference aimed to address disparities in breast cancer care, share insights on support systems, and inspire proactive efforts toward quality healthcare for breast cancer patients.
Keynote Addresses: Insights and Personal Journeys in Breast Cancer Care
One of the event’s keynote speakers, Dr. Anu Oluwakemi Wale-Olaitan, provided an in-depth exploration of the conference theme, “Closing the Care Gap: Encourage to Cope and Survive Breast Cancer.” Dr. Wale-Olaitan began by defining breast cancer as a condition where tumors, if left untreated, can lead to serious health issues, even death. She emphasized that breast cancer is not limited to women; men are also at risk, projecting the importance of universal awareness.
Dr. Wale-Olaitan addressed the “care gap” in breast cancer, highlighting the necessity of providing accessible medical services to individuals affected by the disease. Through her own personal experiences and professional insights, she conveyed the emotional and psychological toll that breast cancer takes on patients and their families. “The journey through breast cancer is often an emotional roller coaster, one that affects not only the patient but also their loved ones,” she shared. Her discussion shed light on the severe impact that this illness has, especially on mothers and their children, making the case for closing the care gap all the more pressing.
She passionately advocated for support groups, noting that they provide patients with a sense of community. “When you’re going through something and you know you’re not alone, it helps you build inner strength to cope,” she expressed. Dr. Wale-Olaitan also introduced mindfulness practices that aid in managing anxiety and depression, such as cultivating present-moment awareness, which can help patients better navigate their breast cancer journey.
Role of Healthcare Providers and the Call for Government Action
Dr. Wale-Olaitan called attention to the role of healthcare providers in breast cancer care, acknowledging the often overwhelming demands on doctors and other medical staff. She highlighted the necessity for an integrated approach to patient care, combining medical treatment with emotional and psychological support.
In her final remarks, Dr. Wale-Olaitan urged the government to take a proactive stance in supporting breast cancer patients. She emphasized the importance of advocating for essential care from local representatives and government bodies, expressing hope that with adequate pressure, cancer patients will receive the empowerment they need to fight for their lives.
Guest Speaker Shares a Personal Perspective
Mr. Godswill Tetteh Ariko, a guest speaker, shared his family’s experiences with the toll of breast cancer. His narrative struck a chord with attendees, illustrating the far-reaching effects of the illness on families and communities. His words echoed the importance of collective efforts in the fight against breast cancer.
Activities and Health Fair: Fostering Awareness and Prevention
The conference featured an array of activities designed to promote awareness and preventative healthcare. Key highlights included:
- Conference Sessions: Panel discussions and workshops with breast cancer experts and survivors.
- Health Fair: Interactive sessions focusing on breast cancer care resources.
- Breast Screening & Examination: Clinical breast screenings provided by healthcare professionals.
- Blood Donation Drive: Organized in partnership with the University of Ghana Medical Centre to support life-saving initiatives.
The Mikafui PINK Conference succeeded in bringing the community together to foster hope, promote awareness, and inspire proactive care. It also underscored the event’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), 4 (Quality Education), and 5 (Gender Equality).
Moving Forward: A Commitment to Bridging the Care Gap
As a first of its kind, the Mikafui PINK Conference and Health Fair laid a strong foundation for continued efforts to close the breast cancer care gap in Ghana. With the support of dedicated individuals, healthcare providers, and the government, the Naomi Mikafui Breast Cancer Foundation remains committed to empowering breast cancer patients and promoting comprehensive care.
For more information on upcoming events or sponsorship opportunities, please visit the Naomi Mikafui Breast Cancer Foundation website (https://naomimikafuibcf.com) or contact +233 55 945 1057 /+233 27 679 8651
The Naomi Mikafui Breast Cancer Foundation and AUCC look forward to making a lasting impact in the lives of those affected by breast cancer, creating a future where every patient has access to the care and support they deserve.
