Netcare cares about knockers and nuts

It’s as important as ever for society to talk openly about the very serious issue that is cancer.

Awareness can save lives and knowing how to check for signs of cancer will hopefully catch the disease early which can save patients and their families loads of heartbreak.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Netcare Krugersdorp included testicular cancer awareness in their late-year awareness initiative.

Assistant Pharmacy Manager Alicia Klein who is one of the many people managing the project explained that it’s important to speak about these types of cancer, both of which can have a devastating impact. Not many people know enough about this subject, that’s why Netcare goes out of its way each year to raise awareness.

Netcare filled the month with various fun events to get their employees up on their feet and participating. ‘Up on their feet’ was the key phrase as hospital staff completed 1 694 laps around the hospital building, which equalled 484km in a walkathon to raise money for the fight against cancer.

Later, each department dolled up their offices and wards according to the pink and blue theme of breast and testicular cancer, spreading awareness among patients and visitors.

Throughout, the team sold items such as themed shirts and head wraps, and had raffles to raise additional funds. Many staff members and supporters received large gift baskets during the raffle draw.

In the end they raised about R50 000 and on Wednesday, November 10 they handed over R20 000 to Reach for Recovery (RFR) during an event at the hospital, and R10 000 each to Knitted Knockers and Love Your Nuts (LYN). Alicia explained that the remaining R10 000 would be handed out to other groups and individuals as the need arises.

RFR acts mainly as a support organisation for people struggling with breast cancer and explained, “Well-selected and trained volunteers, who each have experienced the breast cancer journey, render an emotional care and practical support programme to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients and their families”.

Knitted Knockers takes an interesting approach to post-mastectomies by providing women with hand-knitted breast prostheses. As they explained it, “Knitted Knockers are softer and lighter than any other prosthesis, much more comfortable to wear and can be placed in any regular bra. The knitted fabric breathes and prevents the heat rash and discomfort experienced by many women wearing the silicone ones.”

LYN raises awareness among boys and men regarding a subject not many men talk about – testicular cancer – by going out and speaking to communities across South Africa.