One Communications, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, officially launched Pinktober 2025 at the Pegasus Corporate Suites under the theme “Act Now, Live Strong.”
The event brought together survivors, carers, sponsors, and health officials in a united call for early detection and sustained cancer awareness.
The programme opened with protocols led by Martina Johnson, who welcomed representatives from the Ministry of Health, Sterling Products, Halliburton, SBM, Qualfon, and members of the Champions of Hope NGOs.
Delivering remarks, Ian Lewis, Director of Marketing at One Communications, said the theme was chosen to remind Guyanese of the urgency of cancer screening and the courage of survivors.
“Act now, because cancer does not wait. Live strong, because strength is not only surviving but also choosing to take care of yourself and fight boldly,” Lewis said.
“Last year, over 14,000 people walked with us for Pinktober. This year, let’s surpass that. Each step we take is in solidarity with those who are fighting, those we’ve lost, and those we’re determined to protect.”
Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr Danielle Drepaul, Coordinator of the Chronic Disease Unit, delivered remarks on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony.
“Every October, everyone wants to wear pink and get screened, but after the month ends, the momentum fades,” Dr Drepaul told the audience. “Screening must be year-round. Breast cancer is not only a women’s issue; men are affected too.”
She also announced that mammogram services are now available in Regions Two, Six, Nine, and 10 at regional hospitals, free of cost.
Survivors’ testimonies gave the launch its most powerful moments. Renetta Williams, a breast cancer survivor, shared how she endured a mastectomy, 10 rounds of chemotherapy, and 30 sessions of radiation after being diagnosed at stage three.
“Something can be going on there, and we take it for granted,” she said. “Please, take your life; take your health into your own hands.”
Another survivor, Rosalyn Clarke, urged women to be careful about what they put into their bodies, recalling her own experience with hormonal treatments that complicated her journey.
Sponsors also played a role in the recognition of survivors. Sterling Products Limited presented tokens to Renetta and Rosalind, honouring their courage and advocacy.
As Pinktober 2025 begins, One Communications and its partners are urging Guyanese to take action now: book a screening, support a survivor, and walk for awareness.
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