Launch of Sibahle Support Group
Not only was the aim to introduce the new satellite branch of CANSA in Emjindini, which will be up and running early in the new year, but also to create awareness, support the fighters, admire the survivors and honour the taken.
So often we hear the phrase cancer can be beaten.
Unfortunately, this is not always the case, mainly because the victim is not well informed and therefore did not receive treatment in time.
A very special event, the launch of Sibahle Support Group, took place in the town hall last Tuesday. Not only was the aim to introduce the new satellite branch of CANSA in Emjindini, which will be up and running early in the new year, but also to create awareness, support the fighters, admire the survivors and honour the taken.
Many VIPs attended and after the programme director, J Lubisi welcomed everyone, Past FM Motha of the Faithful Friends of Christ Ministry conducted the opening.
Many guest speakers had a chance to say their piece, but three of them spoke with such conviction about their cause that the attendees had no choice but to sit up and take note.
These ladies were Lindiwe Ntuli Thoubatla of CANSA, Olga Nkosi, coordinator of Umjindi HIV/Aids and Christelle Strauss, chairman of CANSA Barberton.
During a very moving speech, Lindiwe, a survivor, shared the story of her fight against cancer. This very positive and energetic lady radiates a charisma one does not often come across. She explained why it was of utmost importance that the community supported CANSA whenever they had a fund-raising day as these funds were used to do research and even care for the families of cancer patients.
Nkosi spoke about safe sex and about how a promiscuous sex life could also lead to cancer. She addressed not only the women, but the men as well – urging them to have themselves circumcised as this could prevent their partners from contracting cervical cancer.
Strauss said, “Early detection is the key to having a chance, but unfortunately, many people, especially in the rural areas, still believe that cancer is contagious because of lack of knowledge about the disease.” She also urged men to buy the kit that tests for prostate cancer which wa aslso sold by CANSA volunteers on the day and explained, in no uncertain terms, how this kit worked.
Should you wish to get more information on the Sibahle Support Group, phone Christelle Strauss on 083-655-4289.
