Experience feathers and fine tea this October

Raising a cup for cancer is Zululand’s specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Jay Moodley, who has made community outreach one of the key pillars of her work.

Excited to bring back this exclusive annual fundraiser for the CANSA Association and Zululand Hospice, in an exclusive Q&A Dr Jay shares on the theme and why this year is expected to be bigger than ever:

Q: What inspired the theme, and what do you hope guests will take away from the event?
A: Feathers and Fine Tea brings a little elegance and fantasy, while the Mardi Gras influence adds colour, fun and a sense of celebration.
But underneath all the beautiful feathers, tea and glamour is a very serious purpose.
Cancer can be such a heavy subject, and I wanted to create an afternoon where we could acknowledge that reality while also celebrating life, survivorship, hope and community.
I hope guests leave feeling inspired, not only to support the cause financially, but to become more aware of cancer, screening and prevention, and to understand how important their support can be to someone going through cancer.

ALSO READ: The importance of supporting cancer patients

Q: What makes this year’s fundraiser different from previous years?
A: Every year we try to evolve the event, and this year we wanted to take it to another level.
It is not simply a fundraising afternoon. We want it to be an experience that combines education, meaningful conversations, entertainment, beautiful décor, fine tea, and a little Mardi Gras magic.
Most importantly, we want to bring different people involved in the cancer journey together. Cancer care is not one-dimensional; it involves doctors, oncology teams, nurses, social workers, dietitians, psychologists, rehabilitation professionals, hospices, families and caregivers.
This year’s event is about bringing those voices together and reminding our community that cancer care is about the whole person.

Q: Why do you think some women still avoid or delay having a pap smear?
A: There are many reasons, and I don’t think we should ever judge women for them.
Some are frightened that the test will be painful. Others feel embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing intimate health issues. Some women believe that if they feel healthy, they don’t need screening.
For others, the barrier is practical – transport, finances, time away from work or childcare.
And sometimes it is simply because nobody has explained why screening is important.
That’s why accessibility and education go hand in hand. We need to make screening easier, less intimidating and more normal.

Q: What would you say to women who are nervous and embarrassed about being screened?
A: I would say: please don’t be embarrassed about looking after your health.
As a doctor, I can assure you this is a completely routine part of women’s healthcare. We understand it can feel uncomfortable or intimidating, and our job is to make you feel safe and respected.
The few minutes of discomfort or awkwardness are far less important than the potential benefit of detecting a problem early.
Your health deserves a few minutes of your time.

ALSO READ: Dr Presha to share oncology expertise at cancer event

Q: What is your secret to balancing the pressures of being a wife, mother and businesswoman while remaining plugged into the community?
A: I don’t think I have found a perfect balance, and I don’t think perfect balance actually exists! Being a mom has taught me that perfection is unattainable.
Being present makes the ultimate difference. There are seasons when work needs more of me and seasons when my family needs more of me.
I am learning to accept that instead of feeling guilty.
I also believe strongly in having a support system. Nobody builds a meaningful life completely on their own.
And I have learnt that sometimes you have to say no. You cannot do everything, be everywhere and make everyone happy.
My biggest lesson has been that balance isn’t about giving everything equal time; it’s about giving the right things your attention at the right time.

Q: If you could describe yourself in three words, what would you choose?
A: Passionate. Resilient. Compassionate.

Event details

• Date: Saturday, 17 October
• Time: 1pm
• Venue: Covenant Fellowship Church, Richards Bay
• Theme: Feathers and Fine Tea with a Touch of Mardi Gras
• Tickets: R250 per person from Dr Jayeshnee Moodley’s rooms at Melomed Hospital, Suite 107
• Contact: Dr Jayeshnee Moodley’s rooms on 035 7721581

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