Samoa Cancer Society

Its Chief Executive Officer Su'a John Ryan said the assistance is for a project to supply colostomy bags and accessories to patients in Samoa.

A colostomy bag collects human waste from the digestive tract through an opening in the abdominal wall.

He said the ages of those receiving assistance range from newborns to patients that are in their 70s and the funding will enable it to continue to provide this service free of charge.

Su'a said the bags are expensive so having the New Zealand High Commission support the Samoa Cancer Society is appreciated.

These models are full breasts and small male breast.

NZ Foundation National Breast Health Educator, Debra Leutenegger says, “we were more than happy to send them over at no cost to the Society, to be of use in raising breast health awareness within the communities of Samoa”.

In addition to the training models, Breast Cancer Foundation NZ has extended an invitation to SCS and the community to freely access and make use of its online resources that is available on their website www.breastcancerfoundation.org.nz

The donation is part of a response to the cancer society’s request to assist gastric cancer patients for quality life after ostomy operations.

SCS CEO Shelley Burich says colostomy bags become an essential part of a patient’s everyday life after an operation so it is a priority for the SCS Team to ensure this service is readily available and consistent for patients especially during the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Mrs Burich says this is the first time a non-government organisation from Samoa is attending this high level meeting and will use the opportunity and experience to network and create new partnerships with other global CSOs including improving advocacy skills to be used back home.

The work of Manamea Apelu-Schwalger to improve support for cancer patients in Samoa will continue, according to the CEO of Samoa's Cancer Society.

Shelly Burich says their ongoing challenges include poor resources, a lack of treatment options and a lack of support for patients.

But she says Mrs Apelu-Schwalger utilised extensive networks, including the creation of an alumni of beauty queens, to raise cancer awareness.

Speaking at the Pinktober Parade to promote the Society’s awareness program encouraging early detection as a prevention of cancer in particular breast cancer, Papaliitele reiterated the government’s support.
“I will fail in my duties if I do not commend the Samoa Cancer Society, her stakeholders and supporters for this patriotic initiative. 

“And rest assured government is not sitting on its laurels and we hear and appreciate your cries, and concerns,” said the Acting Prime Minister.

Chief Executive Mata’utia Rula Levi and staff to part in the Pinktober parade yesterday.

“Our support is to honour the memory of staff members who have passed on due to cancer,” said Mata’utia.

“It has brought staff together as a family through sharing our fears during our daily prayer meetings,” added Mata’utia who is also battling cancer.

Throughout October, the SHC is also using pink files and receipts.

And the Corporation will also be presenting financial assistance to the Samoa Cancer Association to help with the awareness against cancer.