Pink October 2024 Virtual Event: A Celebration of Hope and Resilience
Written by: Roswitha Dueck de Giuliano
On October 31, 2024, the Pink October Virtual Event took place, bringing together over 100 participants from Latin America and the Caribbean via Zoom and YouTube Live. Master of Ceremonies Hanna Billiard warmly welcomed the attendees, setting the tone for a day filled with inspiration and community spirit.
The event began with an introductory video from the Women’s Federation for World Peace, followed by heartfelt words from International President Moriko Hori. She expressed deep gratitude to the volunteers who actively participated in the Pink October campaign, highlighting the collective strength that unites communities in their commitment to hope, prevention, and resilience.
After a moving prayer led by Pastor Noemí Paredes from the Ambassadors of Christ Church in Argentina, a video showcased various Pink October activities across Latin America. These initiatives underscored a profound commitment to breast cancer awareness and the health and well-being of women throughout the region.
Dr. Simone Cortes from Brazil, founder of Cascavel Rosa and the Amor em Fios and Amor em Fios Kids associations, emphasized the importance of cancer prevention and the fight against gender violence. Her inspiring words resonated with many, reinforcing the need for proactive measures in both health and social issues.
Tania Gómez, President of Ambassadors of Good in Brazil and a national and international speaker, shared her emotional journey. Having overcome breast cancer, she committed herself to activism, passionately stating that every woman deserves the opportunity to survive.
The event continued with a poignant testimony from Mrs. Teiko Kono of the Dominican Republic, a former Secretary General of FMPM for Central America and the Caribbean. She moved the audience with her story of survival, emphasizing how her faith sustained her through 17 years as a breast cancer survivor. Following her, mental health specialist Ms. Tránsito Vásquez offered valuable advice on overall well-being.
From Mexico, Dr. Ariadna Martínez, a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics and medical director of the Luis Pasteur Foundation, provided essential information about both preventable and non-preventable risk factors for breast cancer, educating participants on the critical aspects of the disease.
Councilwoman María Ika from Rapa Nui Island concluded the testimonials by urging participants to respect their bodies and maintain prevention as a year-round priority. She noted that in her community, women are regarded as invaluable pillars of society.
The inspiring stories continued with Ms. Sheyla Galba from Brazil, co-founder of the Sheyla Galba Cancer Institute, who shared her journey of overcoming breast cancer. Her testimony, filled with hope and strength, underscored the significance of early detection and community support.
Additionally, Ms. Catalina Santucho from Argentina shared her courageous battle with the disease while advocating for women's health awareness in her region.
The event culminated with closing remarks from Regional President Ms. Roswitha Dueck de Giuliano, who expressed heartfelt thanks to Regional General Secretary Andrea Fayad, sub-regional directors, and all participants. She acknowledged the importance of unity and collaboration in the fight against breast cancer, emphasizing that every individual effort contributes to collective well-being.
As the event concluded, participants were reminded that together, they can make a significant impact in their communities, transforming lives through resilience and mutual support.
