SINCE 2020, Sygnus has demonstrated a commitment to turning breast cancer awareness into meaningful action, contributing more than $4 million to support early detection, mammogram screenings and care for persons affected by the disease.

This year, the company strengthened that commitment with its largest annual contribution to date — $1 million to the Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) and Jamaica Reach to Recovery (JR2R).

The donation supports fund-raising for a new mammography machine, and financial assistance for women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The funds allocated to the JCS will strengthening its capacity to provide breast cancer screening, and support early detection.

The contribution to JR2R will help the organisation continue providing essential assistance to women undergoing treatment, including subsidies for medical expenses, diagnostic tests, surgeries, prostheses, and counselling.

Beyond financial assistance, Sygnus also underscored its commitment to creating opportunities for women affected by breast cancer to feel supported, encouraged, and connected to others who understand their experiences.

JR2R hosts monthly meetings that give its members a space to share experiences, build connections, and enjoy moments of fellowship outside the demands of treatment and recovery.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sygnus partnered with the JR2R to sponsor its October meeting, treating members to food, a floral arrangement workshop and an uplifting session with Stacey Hines, CEO of Epic Transformation.

Through her message, Hines encouraged the women to reflect on hope, self-worth and the strength that can be found in community. The gathering offered members an opportunity to relax, express their creativity and enjoy a shared experience in an environment centred on their well-being.

Elizabeth James, vice-president and head of wealth and client strategy at Sygnus, said the company’s continued support reflects its belief that breast cancer awareness must be matched by sustained action, access to care and meaningful support for women and their families.

Elizabeth James (right), vice-president and head of wealth and client strategy at Sygnus, embraces Sandra Samuels, president of Jamaica Reach to Recovery, at its monthly meeting for breast cancer survivors, where the company feted the women with a special floral arrangement workshop. 

“Breast cancer awareness must lead to action. Since 2020, we have stood alongside JCS and JR2R to help women access early detection and navigate the financial and emotional demands of treatment,” said James.

“We all know at least one person who has been affected by this illness, which makes this a cause that touches every community and every family. Every contribution, partnership, and act of support, can help make a meaningful difference in a woman’s life. Our commitment is long-term: to strengthen this work and ensure that women and their families know they are not alone,” added James.

The Jamaica Cancer Society’s fund-raising campaign for a new mammography machine comes at a time when access to breast screening remains an important consideration in Jamaica’s cancer care landscape.

Mammography can identify abnormalities that may require further investigation, helping healthcare providers detect breast cancer at an earlier stage. Greater screening capacity can strengthen efforts to encourage women to seek timely assessments and improve access to services that support early diagnosis.

Roshane Reid-Koomson, executive director of the JCS, welcomed Sygnus’ continued partnership, emphasising the importance of improving access to screening services.

“Access to mammography is an important part of our work to promote early detection and encourage women to take their breast health seriously. The acquisition of a new machine would strengthen our capacity to provide screening services and support our efforts to reach more women.

“This is a significant undertaking, and partnerships with organisations such as Sygnus help us advance that goal. We appreciate this continued commitment to the Jamaica Cancer Society and to the women who rely on our services for screening, education and guidance,” said Reid-Koomson.

Meanwhile Sandra Samuels, president of JR2R, expressed gratitude for Sygnus’ continued support, noting the difference financial assistance can make to women facing the costs of treatment.

“A breast cancer diagnosis brings significant changes to a woman’s life, and the financial demands of treatment can add another layer of difficulty for patients and their families. Some women need assistance with medical expenses at a time when their attention and resources are already stretched.

“Contributions such as this help us respond to those needs and provide support where it is most needed. Sygnus’ continued partnership is valuable to our work and to the women we serve, and we are grateful for its commitment to helping them navigate their treatment journeys,” said Samuels.