This October, Zonta Club II of Colombo focuses on breast cancer awareness and free cushion project
Vidyani Hettigoda
For almost every woman affected there are three generations who suffer; the parents, the woman and her family and then her children,” says Dr. Mala Tudawe. Vidyani Hettigoda adds, “We can alleviate all of this suffering or avoid it altogether if only we continue to raise awareness.” October is known internationally as Breast Cancer Awareness month and this year, representatives of the Zonta Club II of Colombo are focusing on raising awareness to facilitate early detection, whilst also continuing the Zonta Breast Care cushion project to aid patients recovering from surgery.
A group that promotes women’s rights, the Zonta Club II of Colombo has undertaken a number of initiatives, charitable projects and community support services to ensure education and equal opportunity for women and children.
Dr. Mala Tudawe
While the cause of breast cancer is still unknown, identifying symptoms through self-examination alone can be lifesaving. Dr. Tudawe says, “That’s the sad part because nobody has educated women properly on how to examine themselves.” Self-examination can be performed while in a standing position or lying down and symptoms can be detected in the form of lumps which can be visible or felt in the breast, changes in the appearance, feel or texture of the skin on the breast, discharge from the nipple, pain on or around the nipple, formation of lumps near the lymph nodes under the arm and more. Dr. Tudawe recommends that women aged 18 and above should perform self-examinations before their menstrual cycle begins or after their menstruation cycle has ended every month and consult a physician if they detect any abnormalities or prefer having the examination performed by a doctor.
For those aged 40 and above, she encourages having a mammogram especially if you have a history of breast cancer in the family. With many having undergone surgery for breast cancer, the Zonta Club’s Mammo Care Group committee chaired by Vidyani launched the Zonta Breast Care cushion project in 2013, in Sri Lanka. Originally initiated by the Zonta Club of Botany Bay in 1995, the U shaped breast cushion made of 100% cotton is worn under the arm to maximise the comfort of those recovering from surgery. Following surgery, women are hesitant to move their arm due to pain and for fear that the surgical site may be subjected to trauma. Lymphedema, a condition whereby swelling occurs in the arm and underarm can develop and cause further pain following surgery.
The cushion was developed to provide pain relief, physical and emotional comfort and confidence to women following their operation. Once discharged from the hospital, patients can continue to use it to provide support while they sleep, read, watch television, travel by car, do housework, and protect themselves from seatbelt pressure. It can also be worn over a jacket or shirt to protect them from injury or accidental contact. The cushion is also washable.
The Zonta Club II has been distributing these cushions free across the country to hospitals in Jaffna, Anuradhapura, Chilaw, Batticaloa, Karapitiya, Colombo and more. With over 2000 cushions distributed last year, Vidyani adds that those interested in receiving a cushion can contact the Club and have it delivered directly to them.
The Club also plans to host several awareness programmes this month along with the Sri Lanka Society of Breast Surgeons and aims to conduct an awareness programme every month after October. The October programmes will be geared towards health care professionals and be conducted in English, Sinhala and Tamil. The Club will also be organising a giveaway on social media whereby winners will receive vouchers for a free mammogram. For more information follow the Zonta Club II of Colombo on Instagram: zontaclub2ofcolombo or on Facebook.
Those interested in contacting the Club or sponsoring the making of a cushion, which costs Rs. 1300, can send an email to: zontaclub11ofcolombo@gmail.com
or tel:076 769 1569.
Searching for an ideal partner? Find your soul mate on Hitad.lk, Sri Lanka's favourite marriage proposals page. With Hitad.lk matrimonial advertisements you have access to thousands of ads from potential suitors who are looking for someone just like you.