Magna Motors Dealership Limited, the exclusive distributor of Hyundai vehicles in Jamaica, recently illuminated the night with hope and resilience during its Hyundai Drives Pink Candlelight Soirée, held on the October 19.

This event served as a tribute to breast cancer awareness and the remarkable warriors and survivors within the Magna Motors family and across Jamaica.

In a sea of pink and white attire, guests gathered to set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The soirée was nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster, complete with harmonious melodies, delectable cuisine, and an insightful panel discussion, skilfully moderated by attorney and media practitioner Talia Soares.

Erick Gutierrez, the CEO of Magna Motors Dealership Limited, reiterated the company’s unwavering commitment to the cause. In his opening address, he said: “Our brand embodies more than just vehicles; it epitomises family, unity, connection, and community. This cause holds profound significance for us, as it touches the lives of countless individuals, as confirmed by the compelling statistics, and we have borne witness to the disease’s impact within our ranks and amongst our cherished customers.”

The panel of guests included Minister of Health & Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton, along with Dr Andrei Cooke, Kadian Meikle, a breast cancer survivor and dedicated Magna Motors employee, and Arana Thompson, a breast cancer warrior and a loyal patron of Magna Motors.

This gathering was not merely a platform for sharing personal experiences; it was also a source of preventive education, providing the audience with insights into the state of breast cancer in Jamaica. Meikle and Thompson recounted their journeys in the battle against breast cancer and shared their profound emotional experiences post-diagnosis.

Meikle, who endured treatment during the trying times of the COVID-19 pandemic, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support that saw her through the ordeal. When questioned about how she maintained hope after her diagnosis and during treatment, she said: “I found my strength in faith, encouragement, and the unwavering support of my family – particularly my son, along with the uplifting support of my colleagues and the Hyundai family.”

Thompson, who aspires to conclude her treatment journey by January 2024, underscored the role of emotional support in her ongoing battle against breast cancer, emphasising the crucial need for infrastructural and financial support. She said, “One of the most significant challenges I have encountered is in managing the financial aspects and occasionally encountering obstacles in accessing essential information.”

“Nonetheless, I have persevered with unwavering support from my son, who has been a rock of emotional support, and the steadfast presence of my family and friends,” she continued.

Tufton, who shared his familial connection to breast cancer, shed light on the alarming statistics that indicate a rising number of breast cancer diagnoses in Jamaica, leading to substantial costs incurred by the nation and emphasised the government’s dedication to providing comprehensive support to those in need.

Dr Andrei Cooke, in a bid to alleviate the fear surrounding breast cancer testing, offered valuable insights to the audience on the significance of regular screening through mammograms and self-examinations as the most effective tools for early detection and preventing breast cancer mortality.

In his closing address, Etmour Williams, the commercial and customer relationship manager at Magna Motors, said: “Since the inception of our Pink Love breast cancer campaign in 2020, we have consistently channeled our efforts into donating time and resources for research, medical services, and funding initiatives that directly benefit those valiantly battling breast cancer in Jamaica.”

He added, “Of course, none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our Magna Motors team, our valued customers, and all the incredible stakeholders who stand by our side.”

In recognition of their remarkable bravery, both Meikle and Thompson received heartfelt gifts from the Hyundai dealership. Williams unveiled the significant support planned for Thompson, which includes three years of complimentary servicing for her Hyundai vehicle, spa treatments by oncology-trained specialists, and financial assistance via the ongoing breast cancer month Creta test-drive initiative, all aimed at fortifying her fight against breast cancer.

In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Magna Motors pledged to donate US$5 toward Thompson’s treatment every time someone test-drives the Hyundai Creta.