The cancer society has bemoaned the rate of cancer diagnoses and deaths among young folks in Dominica. President of the Cancer Society, Yvonne Alexander, said she personally attended five funerals of cancer patients within one month in 2019.
“Last year within the space of one month, I personally attended five funerals; three of these were women all younger than me, who died within months of being diagnosed,” she said.
She said the society is doing its best to educate people on early cancer screening and diagnosis, but that ultimately each individual must take responsibility for their health. She said it is not good for anyone to die of cancer in this age, let alone young people.
Meanwhile, the society gave awards to individuals and organizations that helped advance the society’s initiatives over the years. The recipients were awarded during the society’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). Organizations that were recognized for their contributions to the society’s efforts include Jolly’s Pharmacy, Fort Young Hotel, and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) among others. Individuals include Tina Alexander and Dr. Midallia Marie Cognette among others.
A new board of directors was also elected during the AGM.
The new officials are –
- Yvonne Alexander – President
- Kathleen Cornelius – Vice President
- Gail Royer – Secretary
- Angela Desabeye – Assistant Secretary
- Ann Marie George – Treasurer
- Don Coriette – Assistant Treasurer
- David Michael – Public Relations Officer
- Fr. Reginal La Fleur – Member
- Vinna Royer – Member
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