– Hosts first Cancer awareness walk
-by Nakasia Logan
Urban Oasis took a step towards raising cancer awareness, hosting its first Walk in support of two of its clients who have survived cancer.
The walk began at Urban Oasis on South Road and concluded at the National Park, where participants gathered for an informative health talk on breast cancer, prevention and the importance of self-examination.
Addressing participants, Dr. Patina Osborne from David Rose Health Centre highlighted the need for greater awareness of cancer and healthier lifestyle choices.
She explained that while some risk factors, including age and genetics cannot be changed, others can be managed through lifestyle adjustments, stressing the importance of regular physical activity and making healthier dietary choices as part of an overall approach to health and wellness.
”Cancer feeds on sugar, so we have alcohol, smoking, the sugars the unhealthy food…Detoxing plays a major role in prevention,” she said.
Meanwhile, the two cancer survivors shared their personal journeys, reflecting on the emotional challenges of their diagnoses and the support they received from Urban Oasis, because as the saying goes you must never look how you feel.
“I know for one Jonelle was a mentor, she was , the boss lady of Urban Oasis and she gave me a lot of peace of mind because when I found out she was the first stranger that knew. The national park it brings a lot of memories and lots of moments to me because this is where I found Solace while I was diagnosed,” Sunita Kum said.
Sharon Greeman said, “The village pulled me together and even if it was a little like this they made sure I ate, in Jenelle’s Realm now the nails got black, the toe nails fell off she ensured the girls covered it up for me because I still vain even though I going through Chemo…, the hair started coming off anf I just took it off and rocked my ball head with pleasure.. I vane I say but I still made sure I looked good going through Chemo.”
Urban Oasis’ inaugural walk served not only as a show of solidarity with the survivors, but also as a reminder of the importance of cancer awareness, early detection and supporting those affected by the disease.
Statistics from the Ministry of Health indicate that there are some 740 persons diagnosed with cancer, of which 173 are Breast Cancer.