GREAT BAY--Windward Islands Bank (WIB) has donated XCG 5,000 to the Positive Foundation and Elektralyets Foundation to support breast cancer awareness, education and assistance for individuals affected by the disease. The contribution formed part of the bank's Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities, which also included an educational session for female employees featuring breast cancer survivor and advocate Yolanda Jackson-Martina.
Throughout October, WIB encouraged employees to participate in its Pink Fridays initiative, demonstrating support for breast cancer awareness and the importance of early detection. The activities culminated in a session that brought employees together with local advocates to discuss breast health, personal experiences and the support available to women and families affected by cancer.
Jackson-Martina shared her personal journey with breast cancer, encouraging women to pay attention to changes in their bodies, maintain regular medical checkups and seek professional advice when something does not feel right.
Her presentation focused on the importance of recognizing potential warning signs and taking action rather than postponing medical attention.
Representatives of the Positive Foundation and Elektralyets Foundation also participated, providing information about their ongoing community outreach, awareness campaigns and support services for individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis.
The session offered employees an opportunity to learn more about breast cancer and the practical importance of supporting people undergoing treatment and recovery.
Emilia Thomas, WIB's General Manager Customer Experience, emphasized that breast cancer affects not only those diagnosed but also their families, friends, colleagues and wider communities.
"Breast cancer is something that, in one way or another, touches many of our lives," Thomas said.
She explained that hearing Jackson-Martina's experience reinforced the importance of seeking medical attention and taking advantage of opportunities for early detection.
Thomas also expressed appreciation to the Positive Foundation and Elektralyets Foundation for their continued efforts to educate the public and support individuals and families dealing with cancer.
The XCG 5,000 contribution will assist the two foundations in continuing their awareness initiatives, educational programs and support services.
Both organizations have been involved in promoting breast cancer awareness on St. Maarten, encouraging screening and helping residents better understand the disease and the importance of early intervention.
Through the donation, WIB aims to contribute to the continuation of these efforts beyond October, recognizing that breast cancer awareness and support remain necessary throughout the year.
The bank also encouraged women across St. Maarten to take advantage of upcoming screening opportunities, including the Free Breast Screening and Open House scheduled at St. Maarten Medical Center on Saturday, October 31, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The event, organized by the medical center and its partners, will provide another opportunity for women to prioritize their breast health as Breast Cancer Awareness Month concludes.
WIB said its support for breast cancer awareness reflects its broader commitment to initiatives promoting health, education and community well-being.
The bank, which is part of the MCB Group and has served St. Maarten for more than 65 years, continues to support community organizations and activities addressing social and public health needs.
