Liberia cancer survivors walk for early detection
Survivors shared recovery stories at the Liberia Cancer Resource Initiative's annual breast cancer awareness walk in Monrovia.
Survivors of breast cancer participated in an awareness walk in Monrovia on Saturday, the final day of October's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Benejane Shaw, who underwent surgery on March 3, 2025, and chemotherapy, shared her recovery, stating, “I’m a living testimony that early detection saves lives.” The event was organized by the Liberia Cancer Resource Initiative (LCRI) to encourage women to get screened and break the stigma surrounding cancer.
LCRI Executive Director Christine E. Brooks-Jarrett described the walk as a "demonstration of solidarity and collective action," noting that cancer awareness needs to be a year-round effort. Dr. Deddeh Supuwood, an oncologist at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center who lost her mother to breast cancer, aims to help as many women as possible, stating, “When you save one woman’s life, you are probably saving a whole family.”
Lawyer and former presidential candidate Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe linked the disease to governance issues, saying, "Corruption starts with C. Cancer starts with C." Participants enjoyed games and rice after the walk. Dr. Supuwood is seeking support to continue her studies.
Why it mattersLiberian women affected by breast cancer can find hope and support through early detection and treatment, as demonstrated by survivors and healthcare professionals.