KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 23 – ParkCity Medical Centre’s ‘Pink of Health’ event recently gathered the community for a day of awareness, education, and empowerment, focusing on holistic breast cancer care and sustainability.
As Malaysia continues to see an increase in breast cancer cases, with 50.5 per cent diagnosed at late stages (stage 3 and 4, Malaysian National Cancer Registry Report 2017-2021), the need for early detection and community support has never been more urgent.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Strength: Pink of Health”, highlighted not just the clinical aspects of breast cancer but the psychosocial – i.e. the mental, emotional, social and even spiritual needs of the patient and their families as they embark on this journey.
The event brought together medical professionals, survivors, caregivers, and attendees to promote a message of hope, thriving beyond a diagnosis, and supporting one another.
“We believe that every individual’s journey through breast cancer is unique and deserves the utmost care and support.
“The ‘Pink of Health’ event reflects this commitment, bringing people together to inspire, empower and support, in hopes to make a lasting impact in the lives of those affected.
“Through initiatives like our bra recycling programme with Neubodi and partnerships with organisations like Breast Cancer Welfare Association Malaysia, we believe that small actions can collectively create a big impact, both for those affected by breast cancer as well as for our environment,” shared Dr Savitha Dharan, chief executive officer of ParkCity Medical Centre.
A Focus On The Person, Not The Cancer
The event’s panel discussion, moderated by Dr Evelyn Ho, consultant clinical radiologist at ParkCity Medical Centre explored the key theme “I Am Healthy – Why Do I Have Breast Cancer and How to Thrive Even With Breast Cancer?”
The panel featured survivors sharing their perspectives alongside ParkCity Medical Centre experts, including Dr Teh Mei Sze, consultant breast surgeon (oncoplastic), Dr Kua Voon Fong, consultant clinical oncologist, Dr Siow Yen Ching, consultant palliative medicine physician, and Ng Kar Foo, unit head of Dietetics & Food Services.
The panel explored why cancer can develop in individuals who appear to be healthy and whether diet alone can prevent it, dispelling common myths and misconceptions about what constitutes a ‘healthy’ diet.
Often, those who were diagnosed with cancer, wondered how it could happen despite careful attention to food, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.
The discussion also emphasised the importance of an individual’s overall wellbeing after a cancer diagnosis.
“We should stop focusing solely on the cancer and instead focus on the person with breast cancer,” Dr Ho shared.
“I prefer not to use the word battle, as that implies a winner and a loser at the end. Instead, it is about embracing the journey and learning to thrive through it.”
This message resonated with many in the audience, emphasising that being diagnosed with breast cancer is not the end, but rather, the beginning of a new chapter that can be met with strength, community, and proper care.
Patient Advocacy Through Survivors: Thriving And Embracing Life
Nothing is more inspiring than seeing survivors thrive even with cancer that has spread.
Marion D’Cruz, a renowned dancer and choreographer, performed excerpts from a text-based experimental performance titled ItSelf TerJadi (Five Arts Centre, 2023).
She is thankful she can continue to work in education and in the arts. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019, her message was simple yet powerful, “All we have is NOW.”
Siew Mei Quin, diagnosed at the age of 35, shared her personal journey with alternative treatments and her eventual decision to return to evidence-based medical care.
Now thriving over 20 years later, she shared, “Breast cancer does not diminish the beauty of life.”
Chang Chu San, who faced advanced breast cancer that had spread to her liver, encouraged attendees to stay thankful and embrace life fully. “Be blessed, be thankful, live life and believe you can.”
Often forgotten are spouses, family members and caregivers of individuals with cancer. Quek Cham Sheng shared his experience of navigating the shock of his wife’s initial diagnosis and later coping with the news of its distant spread. He advises, “Just be a truthful companion, do your best with no regrets.”
Sustainability Takes The Spotlight: The Power Of Bra Recycling
In addition to raising awareness for breast cancer, ParkCity Medical Centre also partnered with Neubodi to emphasise sustainability through the bra recycling programme.
From now until October 31, 2024, the community is encouraged to drop off old or unused bras at the medical centre.
Recycling bras is not just about reducing waste, but about making a real impact. By supporting the programme, individuals are contributing to reducing landfill waste, supporting sustainable fashion, and most importantly, empowering underprivileged women in need.
Wearable bras will be donated to women facing hardships, while non-wearable bras will be responsibly recycled into new materials.
The event also partnered with the Breast Cancer Welfare Association Malaysia (BCWA) to raise funds in support of BCWA’s various activities, including psychosocial support from diagnosis to recovery, and community outreach efforts to promote early detection and timely medical treatment for breast cancer.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in Malaysia, making up 31.3 per cent of new female cancer cases in 2022.
Other significant cancers include colorectal (12.2 per cent), cervix uteri (7.1 per cent), and ovary (6.9 per cent).
These statistics highlight the critical importance of early detection and education, particularly on breast cancer, which affects women across all age groups.
With half of all cases discovered in later stages, the event’s message was clear, early detection is crucial.
Dr Teh highlighted the importance of regular mammograms, stating, “Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Screening saves lives, and the earlier we catch it, the better.”
Ng also highlighted the importance of making healthy eating enjoyable. “Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or boring — it is simple, fun, and something we can all enjoy.
“By choosing wholesome food, we are nourishing our bodies and making choices that are both delicious and good for us,” he said.
The event also featured interactive workshops on breast self-examination and exercise, equipping attendees with practical tools to take charge of their health.
ParkCity Medical Centre’s ‘Celebrate Strength: Pink of Health’ was more than an event, it was a call to action.
Whether it is through raising awareness, donating bras, supporting BCWA, or getting screened, everyone can make a difference.
As Dr Ho stated, “This is about more than just cancer; it is about the person behind the diagnosis. Together, we can support every individual’s journey and help them thrive.”
