Scores of patrons, including social media influencers, turned up to the Barbie movie premiere decked out in their pink in support of cancer survivors, at a charity event hosted by UCA Jamaica at the Carib 5 cinema in Kingston, on Tuesday, July 25.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) to boost its breast cancer programmes by providing mammogram testing and other services to women who are in need.

In Jamaica, breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancers diagnosed in women, and is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women.

Micheal Leslie, acting executive director of the JCS, expressed gratitude to the relevant stakeholders for donating to the cancer society.

“At the cancer society, we are happy that we were chosen as a beneficiary of this fund. Breast cancer is the leading cancer-related death among women in Jamaica. Hence, when we have funds coming to the cancer society for breast cancer programmes, we are happy for that, because it allows us to expand our breast cancer screening programmes,” he said.

He also underscored that early screening for the disease can aid in early detection, thus expanding the lifespan of women with the disease.

“The objective of breast cancer screening and doing a mammogram is to detect the disease very early. So, having this event tonight and with proceeds coming to the cancer society, we are very grateful because what it does it allows to expand our breast cancer screening programme. There are persons who need to be screened but cannot afford to be screened, the cancer society will assist persons in this way,”

MICHEAL LESLIE, ACTING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE JAMAICA CANCER SOCIETY

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange, who was in attendance, commended UCA Jamaica for the initiative while offering a special message for Jamaican women.

“Tonight, the message I want to share with all the barbies of the world, is that they must be focused, courageous and always remember for a woman, the good thing is to be determined and don’t give up,” she said.

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