Scorch Cancer Support Foundation turns four

Over the past 11 years, cancer has been one of the two leading causes of death in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with prostate cancer, breast cancer and acute Leukemias being the most common causes in men, women and children respectively.

This dreaded illness affects not just the individual who has received such a diagnosis but also his/her loved ones and the country as a whole. It is therefore imperative that we recognize the need to address cancer collaboratively in order to holistically meet the needs of persons affected by the disease. One such national effort has been undertaken by the SCORCH Cancer Support Foundation, who celebrated its fourth anniversary last month.

The foundation is a community based non-profit organization and was officially launched on August 23, 2014. Its members meet on the third Tuesday of each month at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. The SCORCH family consists of persons diagnosed with various cancers, along with their loved ones, medical professionals, and other well-wishers. The foundation operates under an umbrella objective to offer support to those affected by Cancer through education, counseling, navigation and advocacy.

It unwaveringly persists in its commitment to help augment the quality of life of persons diagnosed with Oncologic disorders via prayerful, psychological and financial support. In fact, since its inception four years ago, the foundation has already given $60,000 to aid 33 persons impacted by cancer to assist with meeting essential requirements in the management of their illnesses, such as the purchasing of chemotherapeutic agents. Additionally, the SCORCH foundation has forged strong relationships with local and international organizations, businesses and individual benefactors in an effort to enhance the charitable service it offers to our nation’s people.

The SCORCH Cancer Support Foundation, though still a very young organization, has indeed thrown big punches at this mammoth disease, and its contributions to the national fight against Cancer are indeed noteworthy. Using the words of Margaret Thatcher, “The cancer battle appears to be one we may have to fight many times before we can win it”. However, having laudable support from foundations such as SCORCH will certainly help ease the load of this crusade. We therefore recognize and applaud the organization’s determination to assist those affected by cancer in: Surviving Strong, Courageous, Optimistic, Resilient, Confident & Hopeful in spite of a Cancer diagnosis.

May God continue to bless you abundantly SCORCH family so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2Cor 9:8)
If you are interested in being a part of the Foundation, please feel free to visit the SCORCH Cancer Support Foundation face-book page, and express your interest. Alternatively you are welcome to attend meetings on the third Tuesday of each month at 4:30pm at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. For further information contact Dr. Jozelle Miller at 4561185, ext 115; 1-784-593-8298