HEALTH ADVOCACY PROGRAM
On Thursday, October 31, 2024, the GIMPA SRC Women’s Commissioner, in collaboration with Yaa Animah Foundation and GIMPA Clinic, hosted a breast cancer awareness and talk show program on GIMPA campus at the GIMPA Moot Court.
Objective
The event aimed to educate participants on breast cancer, its prevention, and management. It also sought to provide a platform for sharing experiences and raising awareness about the importance of seeking proper medical care.
Resource Persons
The program featured an impressive lineup of resource persons, including, Doctors from various hospitals, Nutritionists, Public Health Nurse, A breast cancer survivor and a Clinical Psychologists and they were;
– Dr. Daniel .A. Nortey ( GIMPA Medical Director, GIMPA Clinic)
– Dr. Isaac Newman Arthur ( A clinical Psychologists and Medical Doctor, PRO, Ghana Psychological Association Director, UPSA Clinic)
– Madam Charpo Cynthia ( Nutritionists, Mallam Atta Government Clinic)
-Madam Beatrice Gyampo ( Public Health Nurse, Prescott Medical Center)
– Madam Margaret Odame Donkor (A stage 3 Breast Cancer Survivor)
And other dignitaries who graced the occasion were, Mrs. Linda Boamah Asante ( The Executive Director for Yaa Animah Foundation) , Dr. Augustina Akonnor (Dean of Students , GIMPA), Dr. Felicia Engmann ( Senior Lecturer and GIMPA Coordinator) and Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe ( CEO, Founder of Golden Empire Legacy)
Key Takeaways
The event highlighted the following key points:
- Early detection and prevention of breast cancer
- Importance of seeking proper medical care and adhering to treatment plans
- Role of family, friends, and community support in overcoming breast cancer
- Mental health challenges associated with breast cancer diagnosis and treatment
- Need for comprehensive care, including mental health support
Inspiring Testimony
Madam Margaret Odame Donkor a stage 3 Breast Cancer Survivor, shared her courageous story, recounting her journey from diagnosis to recovery. Her experiences underscored the significance of:
- Self-awareness and timely medical intervention
- Emotional and psychological resilience
- Support from Family, Loved ones and healthcare professionals
Expert Insights
Dr. Isaac Newman Arthur , a clinical Psychologists and Medical Doctor, PRO, Ghana Psychological Association Director, UPSA Clinic and Mental Health Advocate, emphasized the critical role of mental health care in breast cancer management. He stressed that:
- Mental health challenges can exacerbate physical symptoms
- Early intervention and support are crucial for maintaining hope and overall well-being
- Proper Mental Health Care helps to heal Breast Cancer quickly.
Also, Dr. Daniel .A. Nortey, GIMPA Medical Director, GIMPA Clinic , shared the importance of collective support in overcoming breast cancer and the need that one shouldn’t fight Breast Cancer Alone, emphasizing that:
- Families, friends, and healthcare professionals must rally around affected individuals
- Community support networks are vital for successful recovery
- Mental Health Care
4.Societal Support etc.
Foundation Overview
The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Yaa Animah Foundation, Lady Emerald Lotus, delivered a keynote speech, shedding light on the foundation’s mission, vision, and goals. She emphasized the organization’s commitment to:
- Women empowerment
- Child health
- Women’s health
- Climate change
Lady Emerald highlighted the foundation’s initiatives aimed at:
– Empowering women through education and economic opportunities
– Promoting child health through access to quality healthcare
– Addressing women’s health concerns through awareness and support
– Advocating for a green future through climate change mitigation efforts
Conclusion
The breast cancer awareness program was a resounding success, providing valuable insights and inspiring stories. Yaa Animah Foundation remains committed to promoting health education and supporting initiatives that improve the well-being of individuals and communities.
