BVI Cancer Society donates $55K Breast Coil to hospital

The BVI Cancer Society (BVICS) has donated a $55,500 breast coil to the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, further strengthening cancer detection and diagnostic capabilities in the territory.

According to a press release from the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA), the donation follows a prior October 2024 handover ceremony, during which the Cancer Society contributed an MRI Contrast Injector valued at $55,888 in honor of former member Kirima Forbes.

During that ceremony, Dr. Aasha Marie Flax-Miller, Head of the Imaging Department at the BVIHSA, highlighted the need for a breast coil, a specialized device that enhances breast MRI scans by providing clearer, more detailed imaging—critical for early detection and diagnosis.

Shortly after, an anonymous donor stepped in to cover the cost, bringing the Cancer Society’s total donations to $111,388.

Commitment to Cancer Care

BVICS President Gloria Fahie emphasized the organization’s commitment to improving cancer care in the BVI.

“This donation reaffirms our commitment to improving cancer care in the BVI,” Fahie stated.

“We are honored to support the Imaging Unit and provide resources that aid in early detection and treatment. The fight against cancer is a community effort, and we are grateful to our donors who continue to make these contributions possible.”

Dr. June Samuel, Acting CEO of BVIHSA, also expressed gratitude for the generous contribution.

“We deeply appreciate the generosity of the BVI Cancer Society and its donors. Their contributions not only enhance our imaging capabilities but also reinforce the importance of early detection in the fight against cancer. This is yet another powerful example of what can be achieved when the community unites for a common cause.”

Cancer Rates a Growing Concern

Beyond financial assistance, the BVICS remains committed to advocacy, education, and direct patient support, reflecting its mission to make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

The donation ensures that BVIHSA remains equipped with advanced imaging technology, improving diagnostic care and ultimately saving lives.

Meanwhile, concerns over rising cancer rates in the BVI persist. A National Health Insurance (NHI) report revealed that the territory has recorded an average of forty-one new cancer cases and fourteen cancer-related deaths annually over the past six years.

Between 2016 and 2020, four hundred sixty-two new cancer cases were documented, with seventy-four new cases reported in 2022.

While the 2024 report is still pending, a 2023 study indicated that over three hundred individuals were diagnosed with various cancers within a three-year period.