A number of persons took advantage of the opportunity to have their screening for Breast Cancer done free of charge. Photo: VINO

Many employees of CIBC First Caribbean International Bank responded positively to breast cancer screening and other activities hosted by the bank today, October 3, 2013. Photo: VINO

Staff being guided on the steps of checking the breast. Photo: VINO

A number of men turned out to support the Breast Cancer awareness activity. Photo: VINO

Sections of the interior of the CIBC First Caribbean International Bank has been transformed with decorations in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Photo: VINO

‘First Caribbean’ Virgin Islands has for the second year around come out in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in collaboration with the BVI Cancer Society and, according to the CIBC First Caribbean Risk Control Assistant Ms Esther H. Persaud, the response has been overwhelming.

She said unlike last year when the bank organized and executed the ‘Walk/Run’ event, this year they are featuring a breast screening and awareness exercise. “The activity we have this year is for both our staff and members of the public and everyone is so positive in their response,” Ms Persaud told Virgin Islands News Online.

She said employees were very early and eager to access information and have screenings done even before the booths were ready this morning. The same was said of the public as both men and women were flocking the facility at intervals to access the services. Breast Cancer screening was free all day and was being done by qualified professionals.

On the ground also were members of the BVI Cancer Society who were manning a booth on the frontage of the bank. The BVI Cancer Society, while giving persons the opportunity to sign up for membership, were focusing on educating persons on concerns surrounding breast and other forms of cancer.

“It was very commendable to see the number of men who came out here today to gather information and have check-ups done. That makes us aware that the message is out there and people are indeed listening because, as we know, not only women are affect by breast cancer but men as well,” said President (Ag.) of the BVI Cancer Society, Ms Gloria Fahie.

The highlight of the observances for Breast Cancer Awareness Month will be the ‘Walk/Run for a Cure’ event scheduled for October 26, 2013. It starts from Nanny Cay and culminates at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park.

Participants will be given free packages of gift items and a t-shirt.