BY JOY OFASIA
Honourable Choilyn Douglas has called on communities across the Solomon Islands to strengthen cancer awareness, encourage early detection and ensure that no one faces cancer alone. Speaking at the country’s first-ever Cancer Survivors Breakfast at the Heritage Park Hotel today, Douglas described cancer survivors as warriors whose journeys demonstrate courage, strength and determination.
“Today we are celebrating life. We are celebrating courage. And above all, we are celebrating hope,” Douglas said. She acknowledged the difficult experiences survivors face, including fear, pain, sleepless nights and sacrifice, while highlighting the resilience and hope that carry them through their journeys. “You are not just survivors. You are warriors. You are living testimonies of strength, courage, faith and determination,” she said.
Douglas also remembered those who had lost their lives to cancer, saying their experiences highlighted the importance of awareness, early detection, timely treatment and compassionate care. She urged women to understand their health, recognise changes in their bodies and seek medical advice early, stressing that nobody should feel ashamed to ask for help.
“PinkTober reminds us that awareness must lead to action,” she said. Douglas encouraged the 21 survivors to remain confident and not allow their diagnosis to define their lives. “Your scars do not define you. Your diagnosis does not define you. Your courage, your strength and the beautiful life you continue to live are what truly define you,” she said.
She expressed hope that the inaugural breakfast would become a lasting tradition promoting hope, healing, awareness and solidarity. Douglas concluded by urging communities to stand together and ensure that cancer survivors and their families receive the support and dignity they deserve, reminding everyone that every life matters and every survivor deserves to be heard.
The PinkTober Survivors Breakfast brought together 21 breast cancer survivors and was organised by the Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA), led by its board member and breast cancer survivor, Yvonne Ogaoga.
