KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Bob and Rita Marley Foundations have distributed 50 mammogram vouchers to women in Kingston and St Ann as part of their Breast Cancer Awareness Month outreach.

The vouchers, redeemable at Apex Radiology, aim to improve access to breast screening and promote early detection.

Fifteen vouchers were presented to women from Bob Marley’s hometown of Nine Mile, St Ann, while 35 were distributed to women from communities across Kingston during a breast cancer awareness session at Tuff Gong International Studios on Wednesday, October 21.

The initiative also highlighted the role of family and community support in helping women navigate breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

“Support isn’t always about financial assistance, but access to care matters just as much,” said Foundation Manager Alicia Williams. “The Bob and Rita Marley Foundations recognise that care extends beyond medical treatment, and that commitment guides our work in the communities we serve.”

The session featured accounts from breast cancer survivors Marlene Dawson-McGibbon, who has lived with the experience for 14 years, and her mother, Norma Dawson, a 16-year survivor.

The mother and daughter shared their experiences, including the emotional challenges of diagnosis and treatment, and the importance of support throughout their journeys.

“Having a strong support system made all the difference in my journey. I had watched my mother go through breast cancer and had been there to support her, so when it became my turn, I had some understanding of what was ahead. But nothing truly prepares you for hearing those words yourself. What kept me going was knowing that I wasn’t alone. My family was there for me in every way. That kept me going,” Dawson-McGibbon said.

Mammographer at Apex Radiology, Shauna Rookwood, also delivered a presentation on breast self-examination, encouraging participants to become familiar with their bodies, identify unusual changes and seek medical advice promptly.

She highlighted the importance of discussing routine mammogram screening with healthcare providers from age 40, noting that women with a family history of breast cancer may require earlier screening and individualised guidance.

The foundations said they hoped initiatives such as the voucher distribution would help improve access to screening and encourage more women to prioritise their health, regardless of where they live.