Jamaicans overseas and at home have once again demonstrated their generosity, contributing JM$1 million to help combat breast cancer in Jamaica. The funds, raised by JN Money customers across the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, the Cayman Islands, and Jamaica, were presented to the Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) and its affiliate, Jamaica Reach to Recovery, in January.
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The donation was part of the JN Group’s ‘Take the Brave Steps’ campaign, held in October 2024, which encouraged customers to support the fight against breast cancer—the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Jamaican women.
Sanya Wallace, assistant general manager of strategy, marketing, and sales at JN Money, praised the initiative as a testament to the diaspora’s unwavering commitment to Jamaica.
“Our customers across all markets have continuously demonstrated their generosity and compassion. Even during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, they united to offer support,” said Wallace. “This donation again reflects their selflessness and also our commitment as an organization to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. We are proud to present this donation to the Jamaica Cancer Society and Jamaica Reach to Recovery to support some critical programs and activities that offer hope and support to breast cancer survivors and their families.”
Boosting breast cancer screening and survivor support
Michael Leslie, acting executive director of the Jamaica Cancer Society, said the funds will strengthen mammography screening and education efforts. The JCS conducts up to 40 screenings daily, reaching close to 200 women each week, offering subsidized services to ensure more Jamaicans get tested early.
“Early detection is key to improving survival rates and giving individuals a better chance at recovery and an improved quality of life,” Leslie emphasized.
Sandra Samuels, president of Jamaica Reach to Recovery and a breast cancer survivor, highlighted how the donation will help cover treatment costs for women in need. The organization provides $100,000 per patient to assist with expenses such as scans, biopsies, and medication.
“Many women cannot even find the first dollar to start the process of recovery, and fighting breast cancer is extremely expensive,” said Samuels. “The $100,000 we allot per person may sound like a lot, but it is just ‘a tups in the bucket’ when facing this disease.”
She stressed that donations like these are vital to ensuring underserved women have access to critical support during their breast cancer journey.
The JN Money customers’ generosity, especially from the diaspora, continues to play a crucial role in uplifting communities and providing lifesaving assistance to Jamaicans battling breast cancer.
