October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when communities worldwide unite to raise funds, spread knowledge, and support those battling cancer. In Belize, this month serves as a poignant reminder of the daily struggles faced by hundreds of cancer patients, each with a unique story of courage and resilience. This week’s edition of Belize on Reel highlights the inspiring journeys of survivors who have turned their battles into powerful narratives of strength. Among them is Valerie Woods, the Speaker of the House, who revealed her breast cancer diagnosis last November. Nearly a year later, she has rung the bell signaling the end of her treatment, a symbolic gesture of hope and triumph. Another beacon of inspiration is Kim Simplis-Barrow, diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2011. Now in remission, she leads the Belize Cancer Society, using her experience to guide others through their own fights. Simplis-Barrow recalls the harshness of her treatment, emphasizing the importance of advancements in medication. Meanwhile, Dr. Cecilio Eck, a beloved pediatrician, shares his own life-altering diagnosis of stage four biliary tract cancer in July 2024. He describes how his life came to a halt upon hearing the news, yet he remains grateful for the overwhelming support from his community. The financial burden of cancer treatment is a significant challenge in Belize, with costs reaching $25,000 every three weeks for Dr. Eck. Simplis-Barrow, who has walked this path herself, emphasizes the importance of empathy and community support in alleviating these struggles. Despite the uncertainties of remission, these survivors continue to draw strength from their resilience and the unwavering support of those around them. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of hope and the enduring spirit of the human will.
分类： health
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Dr. Eck Shares Update on Cancer Battle and Return to Paediatrics
Dr. Cecilio Eck, a cherished paediatrician, has provided an inspiring update on his ongoing battle with stage four cancer. Over a year into his diagnosis, Dr. Eck describes the journey as profoundly humbling, marked by both financial and emotional challenges. Despite the high costs of treatment—approximately $25,000 every three weeks—he remains deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from his community, friends, colleagues, and even his young patients.
Dr. Eck has undergone a rigorous treatment regimen, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, spending countless hours in hospitals. He shared touching anecdotes, such as a young patient who sold avocados to contribute to his treatment fund, highlighting the unexpected kindness he has encountered.
His faith and the unwavering support of his community have been pivotal in sustaining his strength. Dr. Eck emphasized the importance of living each day to the fullest, acknowledging the uncertainty of life. Recent scans have shown promising results, and he remains hopeful for remission.
While he still has another year of treatment ahead, Dr. Eck has returned to his practice, caring for his ‘little patients’ with the same dedication and compassion that has defined his career. His story continues to inspire and remind us of the resilience of the human spirit.
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Speaker Valerie Woods Rings Bell After Cancer Treatment Milestone
In a heartwarming moment of triumph, House Speaker Valerie Woods marked a significant milestone in her cancer treatment journey by participating in the traditional bell-ringing ceremony at her treatment center. This symbolic act, often shared with loved ones and fellow patients, signifies the completion of intensive treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. The ceremony is a cherished tradition in the cancer community, representing hope, resilience, and the strength to overcome adversity. Speaker Woods’ achievement coincides with Global Lobular Breast Cancer Awareness Day, observed this week, which sheds light on a lesser-known yet serious form of breast cancer. While Woods remains abroad for her recovery, the House of Representatives continues its regular session, with updates on both legislative proceedings and her health anticipated in the coming days.
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Sandals challenge surpasses £100,000 for neonatal care, pushes on for more
The Sandals Foundation’s 2025 Island Challenge has achieved a remarkable milestone, raising over £100,000 (EC$363,000) to provide life-saving neonatal equipment for Saint Lucia’s Millennium Heights Medical Complex. Surpassing its initial target, the initiative now aims to secure even more funds to enhance the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU).
From October 17 to 20, thirty UK residents and six Saint Lucian athletes will undertake a grueling multi-day endurance challenge. Their efforts will fund critical medical equipment, including a neonatal ventilator, incubator, infant warmer, jaundice meter, infusion pump, nesting system, and specialized blankets. These tools are essential for treating premature and critically ill newborns.
Karen Zacca, Operations Director of the Sandals Foundation, hailed the event as “extremely successful,” noting that the team has already exceeded its fundraising goal. The challenge features a half-marathon, a 12km rainforest trek, a 10km sea kayak, and a climb up Gros Piton, all designed to raise awareness and support for Saint Lucia’s most vulnerable patients.
Dr. Lashorn Christian, Head of the Paediatric Department at Millennium Heights Medical Complex, expressed deep gratitude for the initiative. She emphasized that the new equipment will provide premature and critically ill babies with a fighting chance for survival. “A neonatal ventilator is crucial for babies with breathing difficulties, while incubators help maintain body temperature for premature infants,” she explained. Additionally, specialized blankets for jaundice treatment will allow mothers to continue bonding with their babies during care.
The Sandals Foundation attributed the event’s success to strong partnerships, including support from British Airways, TripAdvisor, Nico Tours, CPJ, and the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. The Foundation described the initiative as a testament to the power of the tourism network to bring hope and improve lives. Reaffirming its commitment, the Foundation pledged to go beyond its goal, ensuring every newborn in Saint Lucia receives the best possible start in life.
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Twee baby’s geboren in Marwina Ziekenhuis: activiteiten komen weer op gang
Marwina Hospital in Albina is on the brink of a significant transformation as it prepares to officially open its newly completed maternity ward. The hospital recently welcomed two newborns, marking a pivotal milestone in its journey toward full operational capacity. Director Henk Aviankoi shared with Starnieuws that the hospital is finalizing technical details to ensure the maternity ward is fully functional soon. “These births symbolize a major step forward for us,” Aviankoi remarked. In addition to the maternity ward, the hospital’s cafeteria is nearing completion, and essential services such as emergency care and ambulance operations have resumed regular operations. The hospital’s modernization efforts are part of a broader initiative funded by the French Development Bank (AFD), aimed at restructuring and upgrading its facilities. A newly appointed project manager, assigned by Health Minister André Misiekaba, is accelerating the implementation of the AFD project plan. Aviankoi highlighted that specialists, including a pediatrician and gynecologist, have committed to supporting the hospital, with discussions underway to bring in a cardiologist and youth dental care services. Another significant development is the resolution of long-standing salary issues, ensuring timely payments for staff. Aviankoi expressed optimism about the hospital’s progress, stating, “Step by step, Marwina Hospital is returning to full functionality, and the community will soon witness the positive changes.” Collaboration with French hospital partners in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni remains strong, with regular exchanges and technical missions furthering the hospital’s development.
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3000 People Sue Johnson & Johnson Over Baby Powder Cancer Claims
In a landmark legal battle, over 3,000 individuals in the UK have filed a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, alleging that the company’s talc-based baby powder caused cancer. The plaintiffs claim that the product was contaminated with asbestos, leading to cases of ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. The lawsuit, lodged in London’s High Court, accuses the pharmaceutical giant and its subsidiaries of concealing the risks for decades. Lawyers argue that Johnson & Johnson was aware that the talc used in its products originated from asbestos-containing mines but continued to market the powder until its removal from UK shelves in 2023. Michael Rawlinson KC, representing the claimants, stated that the company “suppressed critical information” and “lobbied regulators” to safeguard its brand. He emphasized that the powder’s fine particles, when shaken into the air, posed a significant inhalation risk, potentially exposing users to harmful substances. Among the plaintiffs is Patricia Angell, whose husband Edward died of mesothelioma in 2006. Despite never having worked with asbestos, Edward used the baby powder daily, and talc was noted in his autopsy report alongside asbestos strains. Johnson & Johnson has vehemently denied the allegations, with its former consumer health division, Kenvue, asserting that the product adhered to safety standards and was asbestos-free. A company spokesperson expressed deep sympathy for cancer patients but stressed the importance of factual accuracy. The case is anticipated to draw widespread attention as it progresses through the legal system.
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WATCH: Jamaica Cancer Society offers 250 free mammograms
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In celebration of World Mammography Day, the Jamaica Cancer Society has announced the provision of 250 free mammograms on October 17. This initiative is part of their ongoing efforts to promote early detection of breast cancer, encapsulated in this year’s theme, ‘Catch it, check it, beat it.’ The mammograms will be made possible through the support of the Jamaica National Group and the National Health Fund. Roshane Reid-Koomson, Executive Director of the Jamaica Cancer Society, emphasized the importance of early detection and urged the public to contribute to a fundraising campaign aimed at acquiring a new mammography machine. ‘Our current machine is nearing the end of its operational life, and we need to ensure we can continue providing high-quality services, as we have for nearly 70 years,’ Koomson explained. The society has set a fundraising target of J$50 million, with J$6 million already pledged by two corporate donors, leaving J$44 million still to be raised. Koomson called on Jamaicans both locally and abroad to support this critical cause.
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Concrete falling through hospital ceiling; nurses stop ‘hands-on work’
Nurses at the Maternity Ward of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital have ceased hands-on patient care due to severe safety concerns stemming from falling concrete debris from the ceiling. The issue, which began approximately two weeks ago, has escalated, prompting the nursing staff to take a stand for their safety and that of their patients. According to a nurse speaking on behalf of her colleagues, a large piece of concrete recently pierced through the ceiling, narrowly missing a delivery room. The incident occurred during a critical moment when a nurse was preparing the room for an emergency delivery. The nurse also highlighted additional concerns, including water leakage and mould in delivery rooms, as well as excessive heat and patient mixing in the ward. Despite multiple reports to the hospital’s administration and maintenance departments, no action has been taken to address these hazards. The nurses have now decided to suspend hands-on work until the situation is resolved, emphasizing the need for a safe environment for both healthcare workers and patients, particularly newborn babies and expectant mothers. Currently, two patients remain in the ward, with nurses prioritizing their safety.
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Caribbean urged to confront corporate power driving NCD crisis, says Walcott
Barbados and other small island developing states (SIDS) must unite to confront powerful global industries whose products exacerbate chronic diseases and undermine public health, according to Senator Jerome Walcott, Minister of Health. Speaking at the opening of a three-day global conference organized by the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), Sen. Walcott emphasized the need for governments to balance economic growth with the well-being of their citizens. The conference, titled ‘Addressing the Commercial Determinants of NCDs in the Caribbean SIDS,’ was held at the Courtyard by Marriott. Sen. Walcott highlighted that public health strategies have traditionally focused on individual behavior change but stressed the importance of addressing upstream factors such as policies, markets, and environments that shape health choices. He identified the tobacco, alcohol, ultra-processed food, and fossil fuel industries as major contributors to global mortality rates, noting that these industries are responsible for over one-third of annual global deaths. Their economic and political influence often leads to policy inertia and hesitancy in implementing decisive health measures. Sen. Walcott pointed out the dilemma governments face: industries like tobacco and alcohol contribute significantly to GDP and employment, yet their products drive disease and premature death. While these industries may boost short-term revenue, the long-term consequences include strained health systems, reduced productivity, and hindered economic development. The World Economic Forum estimates that premature deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in lower and middle-income countries will cost $7 trillion over the next 15 years. Sen. Walcott called for bold action, advocating for fiscal measures such as excise taxes on unhealthy products to reduce consumption and generate revenue for health promotion. He stressed that the primary purpose of such taxes should be health, not profit, and suggested dedicating a portion of the revenue to NCD prevention and control. Additionally, he urged integrating health considerations into all sectors, including trade, agriculture, and economic planning, and called for restrictions on advertising unhealthy products, ensuring access to nutritious foods, and incentivizing the production of healthier alternatives. Sen. Walcott emphasized the importance of collaboration through CARICOM, PAHO, civil society coalitions, and academic institutions to share evidence and resources. He linked these efforts to Barbados’ national development framework, Mission Barbados, specifically Mission 4, which aims to reduce new NCD cases and crime by 50%. In conclusion, Sen. Walcott warned that the commercial determinants of health are among the most powerful drivers of disease today and called for courage, collaboration, and clarity of purpose to address these challenges.
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Antigua and Barbuda Government Awaits PAHO Report Before Moving to New Mental Health Facility
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is taking a cautious approach to relocating operations from the Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital to a newly acquired $13 million facility. Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph emphasized that the move will only proceed after receiving a formal report and recommendations from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which recently evaluated the property. The new site, purchased last year, is set to undergo a comprehensive redesign to transform it into a modern mental health campus that aligns with international standards. Joseph stressed the importance of avoiding hasty decisions, stating, ‘I am anxious to see the relocation of Clarevue, but not at the expense of doing the wrong thing. We must wait for PAHO’s recommendations before we proceed.’ The new facility aims to provide a therapeutic environment focused on treatment and rehabilitation, moving away from the outdated ‘colonial concept of isolation’ that characterized older psychiatric institutions. In the interim, an unused building at Clarevue will be rehabilitated to offer improved accommodation and additional treatment space for patients. Additionally, the government has expanded the country’s psychiatric staff to four doctors, marking the highest number in its history, as part of broader efforts to enhance mental health services nationwide.