Care Days, a non-profit initiative that provides free cancer screening and referral services to disadvantaged communities, hosted a free breast cancer screening on Thursday, 25 June 2026 at the TB/HIV Care and Wellness Hub in Atlantis.
The event gave residents free access to breast cancer screening, allowing them to better understand their health and encouraging early detection. According to Alna Kraak of the Wellness Hub, lives are saved by early detection, and the survival rate is significantly higher when breast cancer is discovered early. “Early detection also reduces the burden of treatment. Early-stage cancer frequently requires less aggressive treatment, such as radiation and a lumpectomy, rather than chemotherapy and a mastectomy. This lessens the financial, psychological and physical impact on patients. Our breasts are nothing to be ashamed of. They are part of your body and deserve care,” said Kraak.
Elizabeth Josephs, a breast cancer survivor and community healthcare worker, shared her personal experience: “It is very important to watch for any changes in your body. I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 35. At that age, you expect everything to be going smoothly, so it came as a huge shock. That’s why I encourage women to check their breasts regularly,” said Josephs.She said she was diagnosed despite having no family history of breast cancer. “I didn’t realise something was wrong because I was still young. Looking back, I know how important it is to listen to your body. I’m 55 years old now, and I’m loving my life. That’s why I encourage others not to be afraid of getting screened.”
Those in attendance said it is very convenient to have the service in Atlantis. “The minute I heard about the screening, I found it very interesting. It’s convenient because many people cannot always travel out of town for these services,” said Ewon Stringer, one of the attendees.
Veronica van Wyk (69) said events like these are important because they make healthcare more accessible and encourage people to prioritise their health. Dorothy Du Plooy, a cancer nurse with Care Days, said many women have been living with breast lumps for long periods without knowing what to do or where to seek help. She said the programme provides community members with free screenings and referrals, allowing patients to access further medical care more quickly. “Learn how to examine your own breasts. If you notice anything unusual, don’t ignore it. Visit your clinic, doctor or healthcare worker,” concluded Du Plooy.
***The Atlantis TB/HIV Care Clinic is open three times a week and offers monthly free appointments for cancer screenings, TB, HIV and other health services.
