GREAT BAY--Member of Parliament Francisco A. Lacroes opened his remarks in Parliament today with a short and personal message urging women and men to take breast cancer seriously, get checked and encourage others to do the same as Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins.
Lacroes said the issue is personal to him, having dealt with the realities of breast cancer through his mother, and said he understands the challenges and difficulties that patients and their families can face. He stressed that awareness must lead to action, particularly when it comes to early detection, screening and paying attention to changes in the body.
His Breast Cancer Awareness Month message focused on four areas: knowing your body, getting screened, knowing your family history and supporting one another.
“Awareness is important, but it must also lead to action. Know your body, understand your risk, and make use of the screening and medical services available to you,” Lacroes stated.
He encouraged women to speak with healthcare providers about the screening that is appropriate for them, while also stressing the importance of discussing family medical history with doctors to better understand individual risk.
Lacroes also called on the community to stand with those who are fighting breast cancer, those who have survived it and families remembering loved ones who have passed away.
His message for October is “Stronger Women, A Healthier St. Maarten,” with a call for people to wear pink, show support, take action and take care of their health.
October 1 also marks the International Day of Older Persons, and Lacroes used the occasion to highlight the importance of dignity, respect, access to care, social inclusion and stronger community support for seniors.
“Our seniors have built the foundation of our community. They deserve our respect, care and continued support,” Lacroes stated.
He said valuing older persons means recognizing their contribution to society while ensuring that they continue to have access to quality healthcare and essential services. He also emphasized the importance of keeping seniors socially connected and engaged in community life.
Lacroes said stronger policies are needed to improve the wellbeing and quality of life of older persons, while families and communities also have a responsibility to ensure that seniors are not isolated or forgotten.
Under the message “Valuing Our Seniors, Building a Stronger St. Maarten,” Lacroes said the country should continue promoting dignity, access to care, social inclusion and community support for older persons.
He said both observances carry a similar message: health, dignity and care require more than words and must be reflected in the actions of individuals, families, institutions and Government.
Lacroes added that St. Maarten becomes stronger when people look after one another, support vulnerable members of the community and take their health seriously.
“Our seniors deserve to know that their experience and contributions continue to matter, and our women and families deserve every opportunity to protect their health through awareness and early detection,” Lacroes said. “These are responsibilities we should carry with us throughout the year, not only on the days or during the months set aside for awareness.”
