As part of its 70th anniversary celebrations, the Jamaica Cancer Society recently provided critical relief to 150 cancer survivors and patients in St Elizabeth and St. Ann who were severely affected by Hurricane Melissa.  

Speaking at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church in Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth, which was the first and largest distribution point through the Society’s branch, Mrs Roshane Reid-Koomson, executive director of the Jamaica Cancer Society, highlighted the devastating impact of the hurricane on vulnerable cancer communities. 

“Hurricane Melissa affected several cancer survivors and patients, some of whom are bedridden, and many who have lost their homes, farms and roofs,” Reid-Koomson explained. Reflecting on the scale of the damage, she added, “The level of destruction in the parish is mind-blowing and truly brings to the fore the frailty of life.”

Reid-Koomson further explained how the partnership with Apex Radiology came into being. “We sent out a call for much-needed assistance, and Apex Radiology, a long-standing partner of the Jamaica Cancer Society, answered that call, donating $600,000 to the Society’s Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund,” she said.

The relief packages distributed included basic food items, canned goods, sanitary napkins, toiletries, back-to-school supplies and water.

Chairman of Apex Radiology (IPCL), Dr. Karlene McDonnough, noted that the organisation was deeply moved by the widespread devastation caused by the hurricane.

“The board members, management and team at Apex Radiology were greatly moved by the severe impact of Hurricane Melissa on our fellow citizens. We felt compelled to contribute to easing the suffering of so many persons, including our patients, colleagues and family members,” Dr. McDonnough said.

“As we organised our own outreach efforts, we were mindful of the need to extend our reach beyond our immediate scope. When we learned of the Jamaica Cancer Society’s relief initiative, an organisation with whom we have enjoyed a strong and positive partnership, we were pleased to support their efforts. We are grateful that this donation will help cancer survivors and others in need.”

The Jamaica Cancer Society expressed profound gratitude to Apex Radiology for its continued support. “As a charitable organisation primarily focused on providing free and subsidised cancer screening services, it feels especially meaningful to be able to support our beneficiaries in a different way, during this time of crisis,” Reid-Koomson shared.

Ms Trice Smith, Convenor of the Breast Cancer Survivor Group in St. Ann, also expressed heartfelt appreciation. “This is a very good initiative. Nobody thought of us, so we are extremely grateful to Apex Radiology for the donation to the Jamaica Cancer Society that made this possible,” she said.

“Many persons are hurting because of Hurricane Melissa, while trying to manage their health challenges. Some of these women are two-time breast cancer survivors with additional complications. Quite a number are undergoing a second round of treatment.”

Smith further highlighted the financial and emotional strain survivors continue to face. “One survivor shared that she feels like giving up because the CT scan machine at the St. Ann’s Bay Hospital is not working. Patients have the option to either travel to the Cornwall Regional Hospital in Montego Bay or seek private services in St. Ann, where tests can cost up to $200,000. There is little assistance available, and this takes a serious toll on mental our health. It feels like a death sentence already.”

Mrs Sherie Maragh-Waysome, mother of Alexia Waysome, Osteosarcoma cancer survivor and a student at Park Mountain Primary and Infant School, also expressed her gratitude. She acknowledged the long-standing support of the JCS’ St. Elizabeth branch and the commitment of the Kingston-based team who travelled to meet with cancer survivors. “It’s the thought that counts, and we are thankful that they thought of us and came to see us. They support us emotionally and physically and we’re grateful for the continued support,” she said. 

Reid-Koomson explained that the relief initiative marks the first of several commemorative activities planned for the Jamaica Cancer Society’s 70th anniversary year. “We are always seeking partners and volunteers to assist in our work. Cancer does not discriminate; anyone can get cancer. So, when we have more hands on deck, we will be able to reach more persons,” she emphasised.

The Jamaica Cancer Society, together with its partners, is actively seeking additional support to ensure that cancer patients and survivors affected by Hurricane Melissa receive the ongoing assistance needed to navigate both recovery and treatment.