GREAT BAY--Nation Opportunity Wealth (NOW) Member of Parliament Lyndon C.J. Lewis has extended his support to people affected by breast cancer, including those undergoing treatment, survivors, families, caregivers and those mourning the loss of loved ones, as St. Maarten observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
For Lewis, October carries personal significance. His aunt discovered that she had breast cancer in October 2015 and passed away in December of that same year. He said her loss continues to make the awareness month an emotional period for him and his family.
“October is a month of awareness and solidarity, but it is also a painful reminder for me and my family. In October, 2015, my aunt discovered that she had breast cancer. By December of that same year, we had lost her. That loss remains with us, and it reminds me of the heartache that so many families carry,” Lewis stated.
He said every breast cancer diagnosis affects more than the patient alone, touching families, friends and caregivers, and stressed that awareness should be accompanied by compassion and meaningful support for those navigating the disease.
“To everyone facing breast cancer, I extend my sincere wishes for strength, comfort, and healing. To survivors, we celebrate your lives and acknowledge all you have endured. To families who have lost someone, please know that your loved ones are remembered and that you are not alone in your grief,” Lewis stated.
Lewis encouraged women and families to use Breast Cancer Awareness Month as an opportunity to have conversations about breast health, seek guidance from healthcare professionals and support those undergoing testing, treatment or recovery.
He also expressed appreciation to healthcare professionals, caregivers, volunteers and organizations that continue to provide care, encouragement and assistance to breast cancer patients and their families.
“Support can be as simple as listening, checking in, accompanying someone to an appointment, or helping a family through a difficult day. These acts of kindness matter. Let us make sure that our support continues beyond October,” Lewis added.
The MP said Breast Cancer Awareness Month should also serve as a reminder that community support cannot end when October is over. He called on residents to continue showing compassion to people undergoing treatment, to support survivors and to stand with families coping with loss.
“In memory of my aunt and all the loved ones we have lost, I stand in solidarity with every person and family affected by breast cancer. May this month bring greater awareness, stronger support, and renewed hope,” Lewis concluded.
