New Nonprofit Whose Focus Is Cancer Awareness Set For June 29 Launch

In recognition of June as National Cancer Survivor Month, Ribbons for a Cure, Inc.,(R.F.A.C.), a new, local Virgin Islands nonprofit organization will host a “Foundation Launch & Reception” on Saturday, June 29, at 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Balter Restaurant.  

According to a release issued this week, the primary purpose of the organization is to provide cancer outreach and support in the community through education and awareness initiatives. It says the nonprofit’s ultimate goal is to fully educate the Virgin Islands population on the signs, symptoms and risk factors of all types of cancers so that early detection can help save lives.  The high prevalence of cancers and the high incidences of cancer mortality in the Virgin Islands were the impetus for establishing the organization, the release says.  Educational scholarships will also be awarded to individuals who were affected by cancer.

R.F.A.C.’s outreach initiatives will include community health fairs and forums to provide hands-on information on cancer, and also develop a cancer registry to collect data on cancer diagnosis in the Virgin Islands. 

“Although there are other cancer-affiliated organizations in the territory, Ribbons for a Cure, Inc. is unique because it focuses on awareness of all types of cancers.  Many cancers are forgotten or unknown, and therefore, may be overlooked as other non-threatening health conditions if the patient is not aware of the signs and symptoms,” said Petra Victor, Ribbons for a Cure president and founder. “It is our hope that we can empower our community by providing timely, relevant and useful information on cancer, so that if affected, treatment can be sought early, and our community can benefit from a better quality of life.”

R.F.A.C. is managed by a board of directors which is comprised of cancer survivors, family members of cancer patients, and cancer awareness advocates.  Membership will expand to individuals in the community who have an interest in cancer awareness, according to the release.

Cancer survivors, caregivers, advocates, and the general community are invited to the Foundation Launch and Reception, which was made possible by the sponsorship of Balter. A $25 donation is requested for each guest.  For information, call 340-514-5214 or email [email protected].