By Pemalja Pathiraja
On October 16th, 2024, Far Eastern Private School in Al Shahba celebrated Breast Cancer Awareness Month. FEPSians wore pink to show their support, and the event featured educational talks on breast cancer and hearing a powerful testimony from a survivor.
FEPSians and teachers gathered to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024-2025. The celebration commenced with the hosts, Yasmine Al Sham and Ariane Avilla, who emphasized the importance of breast cancer awareness.
The SSG President, Alexandra Santilles, gave an inspiring speech, followed by the selected SSG officers who provided insights into breast cancer, educating the audience on its nature and impact. The School Nurse, Ms. Jhonnalyn Salandanan, explained how to prevent Breast Cancer, stating the importance of early detection and staying healthy.
A Breast Cancer Survivor, Ms. Carol Chanlionco Apil, shared an emotional story with the students and teachers, warning them about how she discovered she had breast cancer. She explained that she had noticed some signs but ignored them at first, which made her condition worse. She also spoke about the financial cost of treatment, her challenges of recovery, and the challenges she faced as a mother. Ms. Carol Chanlionco Apil gave valuable advice on how to avoid breast cancer, encouraging everyone to pay attention to early signs and follow the healthy habits that helped her during her journey.
The event ended with the SSG Adviser, Mr. Aljande Forzado giving the closing remarks, and afterward, all FEPSians gathered for a group photo to mark the occasion. This event highlighted the vital message that awareness, education, and early detection are our most effective tools in the battle against breast cancer.