- Deon Rushin, from Steenberg, launched a breast cancer awareness campaign, raising over R2 000 for Cansa in memory of family members lost to cancer.
- The campaign included educational talks, a candlelighting ceremony, and the distribution of pamphlets.
- Rushin hopes to encourage young women to perform self-exams and get regular screenings for breast cancer.
All too familiar with the devastation and loss caused by cancer, Steenberg resident Deon Rushin embarked on a breast-cancer awareness campaign to encourage young people to undergo regular checks.
Rushin, a father of three, and wife Sandra lost six family members to cancer over a span of 20 years.
Last month (October), as part of their breast-cancer awareness campaign, they raised more than R2 000 for the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa).
“In October we started a campaign that entailed the education and awareness for breast cancer. I do herbal health solutions, which are indigenous herbal products for people with chronic issues such as high blood pressure.
“We wanted to make a contribution to Cansa for Breast-Cancer Awareness Month, so we donated the proceeds of our sales in October.”
Asked why Cansa, Rushin explained he had lost parents and siblings to the illness.
“My purpose is to educate young girls about self-examining and to consult an adult to be screened at a medical facility. I lost my father, mother, two brothers, mother-in-law and brother-in-law to cancer.”
The campaign included educational talks, the handing out of pamphlets and a candlelighting ceremony to remember those who have succumbed to the illness.
“On Saturday 26 October, we lit a candle in remembrance of those who passed on from breast cancer, including our friends,” he said. “The candle was in honour, especially, of a good friend who had lost his battle with cancer recently.”
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Rushin hoped the educational talks would encourage young women to ensure they had themselves tested regularly.
“The idea is just to hand information out to young women and ensuring they keep themselves safe and tested, because cancer, it seems, is becoming more and more prevalent in our lives.”
He added the campaign was for men, women and children because the condition affected everyone, regardless. “I have two daughters, a son and four grandchildren, so yes, it is a very real concern.”
Acknowledging the donation to Cansa, in a confirmation of funds received sent to Rushin, National Sustainability Manager Anita Snyders said the gesture provided a light in the darkness.
“Thank you for showing your generosity with the recent financial gift of R2 120 towards the Cancer Association of South Africa. You kindness provides a light in the darkness of a cancer diagnosis,” she said. “Besides the direct help that this donation gives to our Care Homes, just knowing that they’re not alone gives enormous comfort and support to patients and their families.”
