The Warrens business district in Barbados was awash with a vibrant pink hue on Sunday as an estimated 20,000 participants gathered for the 2025 CIBC Walk for the Cure. This event marked one of the largest turnouts in its history, showcasing a profound display of unity and commitment to breast cancer awareness. Kemar Polius, Head of CIBC Barbados, expressed his awe at the scene, describing it as “a sight to behold.” He shared his experiences from similar walks in the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas, emphasizing that the Barbadian event was unparalleled in its scale and impact. Polius highlighted that the CIBC Caribbean has raised over US$5 million regionally, with more than BDS$1 million contributed in Barbados, to support cancer-fighting initiatives through the Breast Screening Programme of the Barbados Cancer Society. President Dame Sandra Mason, in her final public appearance before her term ends on November 29, officially opened the event and participated in the walk. Dr. Shirley Hanoman-Jhagroo, Medical Coordinator of the Breast Screening Programme, noted the significant progress Barbados has made in raising awareness and reducing the stigma associated with breast cancer. She emphasized the importance of early detection and revealed the introduction of a new $1 million mammogram machine that offers a more comfortable screening experience for both women and men. Dr. Hanoman-Jhagroo expressed gratitude for the widespread support from Corporate Barbados and the general public, underscoring the collective effort in advancing breast cancer awareness and treatment.
