By: Listowell Yesu Bukarson, Ada-Ghana
The Chiefs and Queen mothers of Ada in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana have appealed to cancer-related non-profit and non-governmental organization, Unlimited Cancer Care International, UCCI, not to relent in their efforts at helping create the needed awareness in the fight against all forms of cancers in their communities, and across Ghana.
The US based organization has also been encouraged not to give up in its frantic efforts at helping address this disease, even though it’s a challenging and difficult path it has chosen to undertake.
These calls were made when the non-profit called on the Ada Traditional council in Ada as part of activities making this year’s “UCCI Ghana Projects 2024” campaign.
Accompanied by its partners from the USA, M&B Foundation, the project which included a visit to the McDan Electrochem salt mining company, donation of cancer-branded exercise books, mathematical sets and book backpacks for schools under “The Condi Projects” in deprived communities in Ada and breast care screening for over three hundred men and women was put together by Ghanaian entity, LYB Legacy Limited.
The chiefs and Queen mothers took turns to call on Unlimited Cancer Care International and its partners not to make the exercise a nine-day wonder, since, as they put it, “Ada is grateful, and like Oliver Twist, we would always ask for more visits and screenings.”
The President and Founder of UCCI, Agivert Jackson, commended the Chiefs, Queen mother as well as the people for welcoming the team to the community.
“It is heartwarming to see so many of you gathered here today in support of this enviable community health outreach programme which as we all do know is geared towards the well-being of your people”, She said.
Adding that, “we are gathered here today, not just to screen for breast cancer, but also to take a proactive step towards safeguarding our future. Early detection saves lives, and your presence here underscores the commitment we all share in battling this formidable disease”.
Ms. Jackson pointed out that, “cancer is a challenge that touches many lives, but it is through events like these that we find strength and solidarity”
Stressing that “our community is stronger when we support each other, when we offer a helping hand, a listening ear, and a compassionate heart to those who need it most”.
The President and founder assured those who are fighting all forms of cancer that, they are not alone.
“To those who are currently fighting cancer, know that you are not alone. Your courage and resilience inspire us all. We are here for you, standing beside you in every step of your journey”. Ms. Jackson affirmed.
According to her, “the stories of every survivor give reason to be hopeful and positive about the fight”.
“To the survivors among us, your stories of triumph provide hope and encouragement to everyone facing their own battles”. She said
Ms. Jackson was full of praise for families and caregivers of cancer patients, urging them not to relent in their diverse contributions to the cancer fight.
“And to the families and caregivers, your unwavering support is the foundation upon which healing, and hope are built”. She pointed out. She also expressed profound gratitude to other stakeholders in the cancer fight.
“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the healthcare professionals, volunteers, and supporters who make events like these possible. Your dedication and hard work are the backbone of our efforts to create a healthier, cancer-free future”. She said.
Ms. Jackson charged stakeholders not to give up in this fight, but rather go the extra mile in mobilizing the needed support towards this mission of fighting cancers, one win at a time.
Adding that, “Let us continue to advocate for awareness, funding for research, and better access to medical care. Together, we can make a significant difference. Together, we can bring about a world where cancer is no longer a fearsome adversary but a conquerable challenge”.
The Founder of M&B Foundation, Dr. Zakiyyah Backman expressed appreciation to the Traditional council for what she called, “warm and enviable reception”.
“We at M&B Foundation are happy to have partnered Unlimited Cancer Care International to Ghana for this great humanitarian trip,” she said.
Adding that, “we are loving the fact that our efforts and contributions, would go a long way to better the lot of the people of these communities and other communities we would visit in this great country, Ghana”
She pledged the support of her non-profit to other future engagements by UCCI in this campaign to fighting cancers.
“Let me indicate that, this campaign by UCCI is one that, we at M&B cherishes so dearly, and we would continue to support these events as we seek to help bring relief to many, not just in Ghana but other parts of the world” Dr. Backman assured.
The Founder of Manyeyo Foundation, Naana Adiki Manyeyo Adi I, who is also queen mother of Ada, was full of appreciation and gratitude to UCCI and M&B Foundation for choosing to come to Ada for this campaign.
“We at Ada are grateful and happy that, among your list for these projects in Ghana, you chose Ada,” she said.
She said, the people of Ada are eternally grateful for the invaluable gesture, adding that, “we look forward to future collaborations that would inure to the betterment of our people”.
