- Diaspora donates in cancer tribute
- $5K gift honors Leona “Cissy” Tavernier
- Cancer Society receives vital support
- Family urges giving over flowers
- Survivor shares hope after 33 years
- DCS calls for skilled volunteers
A heartfelt donation of EC$5,000 has been made to the Dominica Cancer Society (DCS) in memory of the late Leona Cicy Tavernier of Scotts Head, who passed away earlier this year after a long and courageous battle with lymphoma. The donation was presented by Dominican-born London resident Judy, who represented the Tavernier family at a special gathering held at the DCS headquarters in Goodwill.
Leona Cicy Tavernier, affectionately known as “Cicy,” was born in Scotts Head in 1947 and migrated to the United Kingdom in 1964. A vibrant and generous woman, she built a life with her husband Fabian Tavernier and raised three children and two grandchildren. After retiring in 2007, she returned to Dominica part-time, relishing the opportunity to swim, hike, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Sadly, Cicy’s plans were cut short by her lymphoma diagnosis in 2013, forcing her to return to England for treatment unavailable in Dominica. Despite her strength and persistence through several rounds of therapy and clinical trials, she passed away in January 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to the Dominica Cancer Society—fulfilling one of Cicy’s final wishes.
“This donation reflects her love for Dominica and her belief in supporting those who are facing this cruel disease,” said Judy, adding that the family hopes their gesture encourages others in the diaspora to support charitable causes back home.
President of the Dominica Cancer Society, Yvonne Alexander, expressed deep gratitude to the family for their generosity. “This contribution will directly support cancer patients who are often burdened by the high costs of diagnosis and treatment,” she said. “No one should have to face both the trauma of a cancer diagnosis and the fear of not being able to afford care.”
Alexander also highlighted the Society’s wider efforts, including cancer prevention education, psychosocial support, hospital visitations, and support groups for both women and men. Notably, the organization has expanded outreach, including decentralization initiatives such as a new support group forming in the southeast.
The donation was one of two presented that morning, with a second anonymous donor from London contributing EC$500 in memory of a deceased spouse—continuing a long-standing tradition of giving.
The event also served as a platform to encourage community engagement with the DCS. Alexander announced the upcoming Annual General Meeting scheduled for Saturday, March 29 at the University of the West Indies Auditorium, where a new board of directors will be elected. She also encouraged professionals with skills in IT, design, and fundraising to offer their services to strengthen the organization’s capacity.
Veteran cancer survivor and DCS advocate Vinna Royer reminded the audience of the importance of early detection. Marking 33 years since her own diagnosis, she shared a message of hope and resilience: “There is always light in the tunnel. You can make it. I made it.”
The Dominica Cancer Society continues to play a critical role in supporting individuals affected by cancer. With strong community backing and diaspora involvement, the organization remains a lifeline for many navigating the toughest fight of their lives.
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