Mind of the Writer Blog of Wednesday, 30 October 2024
Source: Etsey Atisu
Rock City Hotel, one of Ghana’s prestigious hotels recently organized a successful breast cancer screening and blood donation event, drawing a diverse crowd of participants eager to make a difference in both cancer awareness and blood donation efforts.
The event, held at the Mpraeso Lorry Station was a collaborative effort involving health professionals from the Kwahu Government Hospital, Atibie and the Holy Family Hospital, Nkawkaw, with support from Consolidated Bank Ghana Ltd (CBG).
The health professionals also provided information on the importance of self-examination and regular screenings, especially for women over 40 years.
Hundreds of women who attended the breast screening expressed relief and gratitude for having access to these services free of charge.
Some women, who had previously never undergone a breast exam, shared that the event encouraged them to prioritize their health. A health talk, hosted by one of the medical officials, emphasized the importance of early detection, proper nutrition, and lifestyle changes to reduce breast cancer risk, further empowering the attendees.
In an interview with the Corporate Communications & CSR Manager at Rock City Hotel, Georgette Quarmyne, she outlined that the goal was not only to provide free breast cancer screenings but also to address the urgent need for blood donations in Ghana.
She added that the timely campaign, aligns with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is globally observed every October.
“We made the event free to the public and that resulted in more than two hundred women being screened and dozens donating blood.” Georgette Quarmyne stated.
Blood Donation Drive
Alongside the breast cancer screenings, the blood donation drive was equally successful.
The management of Rock City Hotel, led by the Assistant General Manager (Administration), Mr. Silvanus Botchway-Anang, actively promoted the donation drive, encouraging staff and community members to give blood. For many attendees, it was their first time donating blood, and they were moved by the impact their donation could have on others in need.
The turnout exceeded expectations, with considerable units of blood collected by the end of the day.
The hotel’s management highlighted that these donations would play a crucial role in addressing the blood shortages that many hospitals in Ghana face, especially during medical emergencies and surgeries.
Screeners and donors received refreshments and other items provided by the hotel and its sponsors, to ensure they had a safe and pleasant experience.
Community Impact and Future Plans
In a brief address, the Sales and Events Manager at Rock City Hotel, Solomon Affum, also expressed pride in the successful turnout, noting that supporting public health initiatives is an important pillar of ‘Rock City Cares’. “Our goal was not only to raise awareness but to actively contribute to the health and wellness of our community,” he shared.
Following the success of this event, Rock City Hotel announced plans to make the breast cancer screening and blood donation drive bigger, aiming to reach more people each year.
According to the sponsors, Bel Beverages and Glico Life; as well as the media partners, Republic FM, Republic 97.5FM, Agoo TV, Agoo FM and GH One TV, coming together with a shared purpose; to save lives through early cancer detection and life-saving blood donations, is a corporate social duty they take much pride in and will continue to support.